Siva Sankrithi has had a diverse career and lifelong passion for chess. From his 10-year stint as a high school math teacher at Lakeside School in Seattle to his early retirement to focus on homeschooling his children, Siva has truly embraced a unique path.

Chess has been a constant companion in Siva's life, starting casually with family in elementary school but turning into a serious pursuit in middle school when he joined a competitive chess team. What drew him to the game was not just the intellectual challenge but also the sense of community and camaraderie it provided. Throughout his life, Siva has made lasting friendships through chess, proving that the game is not just about competition, but also about fostering connections.

As an educator, Siva recognizes the vast benefits of chess in early childhood development. He believes chess can be introduced as early as two years old, helping children develop crucial skills such as pattern recognition, spatial reasoning, and decision-making. Through fun and collaborative play, young children can learn valuable life lessons like patience, planning, and problem-solving, which go beyond the chessboard.

Moreover, Siva highlights that chess nurtures a growth mindset, teaching kids that it's okay to fail, and mistakes are an essential part of the learning process. This mindset prepares them to embrace challenges with confidence, whether it's in academics or any other aspect of life.

While discussing his tenure as a chess mentor and advisor at Lakeside School, Siva shares the incredible impact of chess on students. Beyond competitive success, chess has instilled patience, focus, and a desire to improve in the young players. He recalls moments where students, even at a young age, demonstrated remarkable sportsmanship and collaborated to analyze games together, fostering a sense of collective growth.

Siva emphasizes that the benefits of chess are not limited to becoming a Grandmaster or reaching elite levels. At every stage, chess helps build essential life skills and resilience. As players advance in skill, they develop deep thinking, planning, and the ability to anticipate outcomes, skills that translate into success in various fields.

Finally, Siva's advice to his younger self is a profound reminder to stay true to one's authentic self and trust the learning process. He encourages embracing advice while staying grounded in individual aspirations, acknowledging that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. 

Siva's story highlights the transformative power of chess as more than just a game but a vehicle for personal and intellectual growth. Whether starting as toddlers or pursuing chess in adulthood, everyone can benefit from the rich experiences and life lessons chess offers. Check out the full interview here.