Set aside one evening a week for "Game Night." If the age range of your children is too great to play any single game, divide the group into older and younger players. Some games can be played with all ages and could be used to bring the entire family together. Consider allowing children to invite a friend to play.

Be prepared before the Game Night starts. Determine which games are to be played after polling family members, make sure the parts are present, and go over the game rules to refresh your memory. Make snack foods available that do not ruin game parts (e.g., unbuttered popcorn, a bowl of M&Ms, pretzels). Snack tables for drinks are advisable to avoid spills.

Discuss rules of behavior for Game Night, such as:
* Stay friendly even if you are losing
* Help someone who makes a mistake
* Rules can be changed only if everyone agrees
* Accept lots of mistakes by everyone the first time a game is played
* Loud laughter is encouraged but not mean words
* Play fair at all times

Go over game rules patiently and provide lots of help the first time a game is played. If the game involves cards, for example, you might play with all hands showing. Start the Game Night early enough before family members become too tired.

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