Adaptive Chess
Personalized lessons for students with ADHD or autism, with clear structure, a calm pace, and encouraging guidance.

Thoughtful instruction, a welcoming pace, and expert coaching for different learners and different stages of life.
Personalized lessons for students with ADHD or autism, with clear structure, a calm pace, and encouraging guidance.
Learn the game, return to a favorite pastime, or sharpen your play with a private Chess Max coach.
Chess Max Academy helps students build skill, confidence, and a lasting love of the game.
Led by Grandmaster Maxim Dlugy, our level-based programs combine expert instruction, guided practice, game review, and tournament opportunities in New York City, Greenwich, and online.

Structured weekly chess classes for kids, grouped by age and level. Students learn tactics, strategy, openings, endgames, and tournament habits while practicing with other children in a focused classroom setting.

One-on-one chess coaching for students who want faster progress, tournament preparation, or a personalized training plan. Private lessons are available in person and online with experienced Chess Max Academy coaches.

Chess Max Academy runs rated and unrated chess tournaments for kids of different levels. Tournaments help students gain experience, build confidence, practice focus, and learn how to compete in a supportive setting.

Chess workshops give students extra practice during school breaks and special program days. Children solve puzzles, play training games, review important ideas, and practice chess in a fun, structured environment.

Our summer chess camps combine lessons, practice games, puzzles, tournaments, outdoor time, and coach feedback. Full-day, half-day, daily, weekly, and multi-week options are available in NYC, Greenwich.

Live online chess classes and private lessons help students improve from home with structured instruction, interactive practice, and coach feedback. A flexible option for busy families and students outside our locations.
Chess Max Academy offers chess classes online and in person for kids in NYC and Greenwich, CT. Our programs are built for beginners through advanced tournament players, with level-based groups, private lessons, camps, and tournaments.
Students learn through structured lessons, guided practice, puzzles, homework, and real game play. Online chess classes are available live on Zoom, while our in-person programs run at Chess Max Academy locations in New York City and Greenwich.
Families can choose the path that fits their child best: group chess classes, private chess lessons, summer chess camps, chess tournaments, or online chess classes.
Schools, PTAs, and enrichment directors can explore our school chess programs for after-school clubs, in-school enrichment, and tournaments.
Need a more structured pace? Explore Adaptive Chess for students with ADHD or autism.
Not sure where to start? Schedule a Free Evaluation and we’ll help place your child in the right program based on age, chess level, and goals.
Our classes are grouped by age, experience, and playing strength so students can learn with children at the right level.
Tots — beginner chess for young children ages 3.5–5.5 learning the rules, pieces, and basic checkmates.
Juniors — for children ages 5.5–7 who know how the pieces move and are ready for basic tactics, checkmates, and stronger game play.
Jumpstarters — for students ages 6–9 building tactical vision, clock experience, and preparation for tournament play.
Challengers, Stars, Champions, and Masters — intermediate through advanced groups for students with tournament experience, USCF ratings, and higher competitive goals.
Created by Grandmaster Maxim Dlugy. Our curriculum was developed by a former World Junior Champion and is taught by trained Chess Max Academy coaches.
Clear level placement. Students are grouped by skill so they are challenged without being overwhelmed.
Real progress. Coaches track student development through class performance, homework, practice games, and tournament readiness.
Practice matters. Every class includes structured learning and practical play so students apply what they learn at the board.
More ways to grow. Students can combine group classes with private lessons, camps, tournaments, and online training as they become ready for more challenge.
Follow the quick video guide below to complete enrollment and choose the best class for your child.
We are planning to expand our reach to other neighborhoods, so if you are looking for an amazing chess school in your area, let us know – we may surprise you!
Follow the quick video guide above to complete your enrollment and choose the best class for your child.

Chess Max Academy Gift Cards For Any Occasion.
$100.00, $150.00, $250.00, $500.00, CUSTOM
Live, structured chess classes and private lessons with interactive instruction, assigned practice, game review, and direct coach feedback—from anywhere.

U.S. Chess featured Grandmaster Maxim Dlugy in its One Move at a Time series, highlighting his career, teaching, and lifelong impact on the chess community.
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Published by New In Chess, The Queen’s Gambit Accepted showcases GM Maxim Dlugy’s deep opening knowledge and decades of competitive experience.
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New York Magazine’s Strategist turned to GM Maxim Dlugy, owner of Chess Max Academy, for expert advice on choosing quality chess sets.
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The Village Sun covered GM Maxim Dlugy’s Washington Square Park simul, a community chess event that brought together young players, families, and city chess regulars.
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As chess captured national attention, Chess Max Academy continued helping families turn that excitement into structured lessons, practice, and real progress.
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Chess Max Academy is growing on the Upper East Side with a new Lexington Avenue location designed for families looking for structured, high-quality chess instruction close to home.
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Youngest Grandmaster in Chess History
His story shows how early chess passion can grow into historic international achievement.
Grandmaster and U.S. Junior Champion
A Chess Max Academy alumnus who went on to become a grandmaster and one of the most widely recognized American chess players.
U.S. Cadet Champion and International Master
His progress is a powerful example of dedication, competitive spirit, and long-term chess growth.
Denker Co-Champion and U.S. Chess All-America Selection
His scholastic and national recognition reflects the results that serious study and tournament practice can build.
North American U14 Girls Champion
Her achievement highlights strong girls’ chess development and success in high-level youth competition.
World Cadets U12 Open Champion
His international youth championship result gives the section a clear global achievement milestone.