Spotlight on The Dawson Chess Academy: Featured in Milford Living We’re thrilled to share some exciting news—Milford Living magazine has…
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Welcome to The Dawson Chess Academy
Led by David Dawson, Chess Olympiad participant
Welcome! We provide unique services for families - parents and children - intrigued by the game of chess. Our mission is to teach beginners how to play chess, improve their game, instill a love for this strategic and tactical game that fosters the development of cognitive skills along the way. Join us! You'll have the opportunity to connect with other families, while nurturing lifelong relationships within our vibrant community. Here, your child won't just learn to play chess - they'll develop a spirit of teamwork, strengthen bonds, and ignite a passion that can last a lifetime.
Fun and Competitive Learning Environment
With local in-person virtual one-on-one or group chess coaching, chess workshops and after-school chess programs from The Dawson Chess Academy, led by local Milford, Connecticut resident and Chess Olympiad participant David Dawson, you can have an excellent start in this exciting strategy game of chess for your child and your entire family.
Testimonial
"I love the mini games. It helps me to strategize and get better at playing chess, and I feel like I can play more games at home with my family so I can practice more."

Jai E
Milford, CT
Services
Multiple levels of play options

One-on-one Chess Coaching
1-hour of one-on-one Chess Coaching from local Milford, Connecticut resident and Chess Olympiad participant David Dawson! Virtual or In-Person.

This Group coaching program will help children develop the skills they need to have an advantage against their opponents. Virtual or In-Person.

After-School Chess Program
Local to Milford, Connecticut only. We’ll help your child learn the basics of the game and develop strategic thinking skills that will last a lifetime.
"We're always looking for mini-games and stuff like that. I like the idea of mismatching the back rank and trying to find those starting positions. That was fun. That's something we will definitely do at home. For sure."

Tom H.
Milford, CT

Chess builds the muscles kids need for solving increasingly difficult problems. Chess builds recognition, logic, pattern-building, math, confidence, and so much more for these young children.
— Dawson
Blog
Encourages conversation, creativity, and collaboration
David’s Story: From Beginner to Chess Olympiad Participant
David's Story: From Beginner to Chess Olympiad Participant I didn’t always know how to play chess, even though to some…
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See How Chess Changes Lives at Milford Public Library’s Workshop Series
See How Chess Changes Lives at Milford Public Library's Workshop Series Are you looking for a fun and educational activity…
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Improve Your Life Through Learning to Play Chess
Improve Your Life Through Learning to Play Chess Chess is a game of strategy, wit, and determination. For centuries it…
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Group Chess Coaching
Mondays at 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Margaret Egan Recreation Center,
Room 155, 35 Mathews St.,
Milford, CT 06460