Admit it, something’s rotten in Candy Land: Games for little playahs can be downright boring.

The geniuses at San Francisco game company Blue Orange offer tips to help make family game night a winner.

Practice the rule of three.
Pick just three games. That’s enough to keep it interesting, but not so much little minds start to wander. Choose each game to practice a different skill, such as dexterity, strategy, or memory.

Finish with the familiar.
Start with a new game before attention trails off. Finish with an oldie that everyone knows how to play.

Learn the game plan beforehand.
If you start game night by puzzling out the rules, you’ll lose your smaller competitors. Brush up on the instructions before play begins.

Play it up.
Give the night a theme and build excitement. If, like Pengoloo, the game has an arctic motif, build an igloo fort with pillows and eat ice cream while gathered around the board.

Reward good sports.
Give small prizes (stickers or temporary tattoos) for little people who exhibit winning behaviors like patience and following the rules.

For more information, go to blueorangegames.com.

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GIRLS’ NIGHT
Oh, the Places You’ll Go
What: A class designed to help you bring sexy back.
Why: When Mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.
When: Mon., 6-8 p.m.
Where: Good Vibrations, 1620 Polk St. (415-345-0400). Adults, $20 in advance, $25 at the door.

HEAR
Destiny, Harpist of the Hood
What: The self-described harp honey plays everything from classical to jazz on the long strings.
Why: Groovy tunes for the young and young at heart.
When: Thurs., 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Where: Children’s Storytelling Room, Main Library, 100 Larkin St. (415-557-4554). Admission is free.

CRAFT
Valentine’s Day Art
What: Make felt cards and gifts that showcase how you feel.
Why: Candy and flowers? So done.
When: Sun., 1 p.m.
Where: Richmond District YMCA, 360 18th Ave. (415-666-9622). Family entrance, $10.

Photo: Thinkstock