Sadhana Natali-Khan

What do you think makes you a good chess coach?

A good chess coach needs patience, a passion for the game, and strong strategic thinking skills. I embody these qualities and enjoy helping others learn and grow in chess.

What are your key strengths?

�� Patience – I take the time to guide learners at their own pace, ensuring they feel comfortable with the game.

�� Effective Communication – I can clearly explain rules and strategies while encouraging students to try new approaches.

�� Lifelong Learning – I am an avid learner myself, which allows me to continuously refine my teaching methods and share new insights with my students.

Why do you love chess?

Chess appeals to my competitive and critical thinking nature. While I enjoy following the rules, I also love the challenge of thinking outside the box and discovering creative solutions in the game.

When/how did you first learn to play?

I started playing chess as a child, and I thoroughly enjoyed the "in-the-moment" strategizing that came with playing family members. I learned the game organically, without following any strict structure or template.

Why do you enjoy working with kids?

I believe that as adults, we have a responsibility to pass on our knowledge and experiences to the next generation. Sharing what I have learned and seeing kids develop their own skills and confidence is incredibly rewarding.

What are your main chess achievements?

One of my proudest achievements is playing competitively with my nephew, who started learning chess at five years old and has since become a national chess talent in the UK at age 13.

Additionally, I take pride in challenging and beating older male family members in chess—proving that chess is for everyone, not just boys!

How do you think chess helps kids?

Chess helps children develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and forward-planning skills. It also improves concentration, cognitive abilities, and mathematical thinking.

Beyond the intellectual benefits, chess teaches kids to stay present, adapt to challenges, and think strategically about their decisions—skills that benefit them both in the game and in life.