The government of Alberta is experimenting with a new “Chess for Life” program as a new alternative sentence to juveniles caught doing wrong. It is an innovative way to get young people back on the right track.
According to an article in The Conversation, the idea is an outgrowth of recent research showing that punitive punishments don’t do much to rehabilitate. The chess program seeks to show youth that their actions have consequences. Additionally, the meetings provide a respite from the chaos intrinsic to many of their lives.