Originally Posted by MurphysMom
Good point about the kids (players) and parents being kept separate. The tournament itself is in a separate room from the parents; you can't watch the kids play at all.

A good player (parent or coach) can watch the games of his children and later remember at least the opening moves and comment on the play. If a 5yo plays in a tournament where no spectators are allowed, and if he cannot write down the moves (my kids are older and can't/don't), he won't learn much. It may be a better to have a young child just go to a club where he can play more games (no waiting for the next round of a tournament to start) and where parents and coaches can watch.

Would you take your child to a baseball or soccer match you were not allowed to watch?