Appropriate section for my son in his next tournament?

He's starting 1st grade.  Chesskid fast rating 1,020; chess.com rating for 15 | 10 games is 1150 (only played 15 games on chess.com though).  He did an U600 tournament last weekend and won all his games.

Should we put him in the next tourney at U600, or 600 - 1000?

 

Thanks in advance!

I would play him up to gain some experience, even if he loses. He will take this as a way to drive him and get better! But, it's really your choice. it honestly doesn't matter too much, as I figure he will play many more tournaments. If he won all his games in the u600 though, I think he should play up.

U600 -- winning feels good and feel fun. He's only in first grade so it's important to build his confidence and help him enjoy winning in chess before challenging him too much.

I was in your exact place a year ago and my son is now entering second grade. First off, Congratulations to your son. What a great first tournament. If it was 4 rounds and he won all his games my guess is his provisional is over 600, maybe closer to 800. I have no doubt your son can compete just fine in 600-1000, although kids at the top end of that range will be much stronger than those in U600. Personally, I would have him play again in the U600 and hopefully he comes home with (another?) first place trophy which will really incent him to keep playing and trying to improve. If he does similarly well then when the next USCF monthly ratings come out he will get pushed up in section regardless. I would let the process take its course and let that dictate where he plays. Nothing for building confidence like some nice early wins. And even if too easy two tournaments at a slightly level will not slow growth. In fact it will help them learn how to consistently beat lower rated opponents which is important at this stage. But I am sure he will do fine either way. Your call.

I was never blessed with a child. However, I can relate to when I was your son's age. Why don't you ask him, if he would rather play harder opponents.

Also I agree winning feels good, and helps build excitement in the young. You also know your son. However you can always go back to a lower level. He may actually get excited over a possible harder challange also, so I would listen to what he said, after all it affects, or will affect him, one way or another. Sometimes parents can be to pushy, I am not saying you are by any means. Keep in mind what is best for him, and his thoughts on the matter. I hope this helps.

Than a everyone for the kind and thoughtful responses. I think trying for another first place trophy and then letting him get kicked up by his actual rating is natural and makes the most sense.