Introduce the game by showing the board and its pieces. Explain the overall idea or goal of the game. Demonstrate the steps in playing the game. For example, say, "First you pick a card and turn it over. You determine what color it is, then move to the next square of that color on the board. The first player to the end is the winner." Determine where to put used cards or where and how to roll the dice. Read the rules, then play a practice round where each player can practice rolling the dice and moving their player.
Involve even the youngest family members by allowing them to roll the dice, pick a card or spin the spinner. Three- and four-year-olds gain important awareness of game etiquette when they can play a part. It is O.K. to bend the rules when playing with children under five to facilitate a sense of competence and confidence in game playing. It's appropriate to allow young children to win every time, because they are still developing coping skills and losing a game can be overwhelming.
Teach children age six and older to play by the rules. Demonstrate the importance of playing fair by talking about how it affects other players when someone cheats or doesn't follow the rules. Create a positive, encouraging atmosphere where winners don't gloat and losers don't pout. Reinforce the idea that it's the fun of playing the game that matters, not the outcome.
Model the particular social skills you wish to teach during the game. If you are working on taking turns, praise the players as they wait patiently for their turn to come around. Older siblings can also be role-models for the desired behavior. Divide larger groups into teams made up of a younger player and an older player to help facilitate. Praise positive behaviors and ignore the negative. If conflicts occur, remind players that to play the game correctly they must follow the rules.