What does it mean for kids to see the best chess players in the world cheating?

That is the question Emily Belz found herself pondering after her pastor’s nine-year-old son asked for her thoughts about “Hans.”

“Hans” refers to Hans Niemann, a 19-year-old chess grandmaster who has been accused fo cheating in chess games. Chess.com published a report stating that Niemann likely cheated in more than 100 games online, including in tournaments.

Once Belz got past her surprise that someone so young knew about a cheating scandal in elite proefssional chess, Belz began to consider the question in earnest. Two questions, really: what did she think about Hans? And what is the effect of children witnessing cheating?

At the root of cheating, of course, is the desire not to lose. Belz observes that pressure to perform excellently in everything from athletics to academics can tempt young people to cut corners on the path to success. Learning how to lose gracefully is an essential part of growing up, but one that is easily skipped by parents, teachers, and coaches who emphasize success above all else.

Cheating isn’t just a moral failure. It’s a thief of joy, robbing competitors of formative experiences like the thrill of a well-earned victory and the character-building opportunity of a tough loss. Rather than pushing children to win at all costs, adults can model grace and perseverance in the face of life’s losses and wins alike. And in doing so, they can help children believe that their true selves are enough to be loved by God and others — no corners cut or questions asked.