Chess isn’t just about strategic thinking, although it certainly does help with that. It also helps with patten recognition, focus, flexible thinking and a variety of other vital cognitive skills. Ralph is committed to helping young people succeed in ways they hadn’t previously imagined possible.

Betsy Hill

President, BrainWare Learning Company

“Our son really enjoyed thinking through the best moves for each chess game that he learned about in class. Coach Walker was very patient and very encouraging despite our son’s rambunctiousness in class, which we were very grateful for. Since our son was very enthused after the summer session, he wanted to continue on for further lessons.” 

Megumi Kim

Parent of a Summer Virtual Chess Class Student

Mr. L. Brown

Parent of Onsite Chess Training Class

At first, I was skeptical about Jeremiah playing chess.  It seemed like he should be spending more time for educational studies.  After a few weeks of playing chess under the leadership of Youth Development System Chess Training Class, Jeremiah began to focus more in class and started to become more organized and less hyper.  He has brought his reading grade significantly by thinking critically.  Also, his self-esteem has skyrocketed because he knows definitely he can play the game of chess very, very well……

Amanda Gage-Willis

Parent Onsite Chess Training Class

 

Passionate mission and product–to change children and their life skills, through fun with chess!

Charles Hilson

Managing Partner, LGUC LLC Orland Park IL • 19.0 mi away • Business Insurance & Risk Management

Ralph has an excellent online chess program to help kids develop strategic thinking. 

L. E. Werner

Owner, L E Werner and Associates Inc., Oak Park IL

Mr. Jones has always exhibit the ability to assist children in many ways for personal growth and direction. He is an asset to child development!

Gerald K. Harris

President, Insurance Support Systems Chicago IL

 

YDS has innovative programming for youth in elementary and high school. They have the ability to customize solutions based on the needs of the student population.

Emily Ferguson

President, supplemental benefit solutions Chicago IL

I recommend YDS for the multiple substantial education enrichment programs they offer.

 

Michael Finney

Mentor, TTR Mentoring Program, nfp Chicago, IL