Craig Desorcy posted a great article about teaching small children in Japan. Attention span is short, so change the activity when interest is fading.

Just this past week I have been carefully noting how emotional the little ones are, quick to laugh, quick to cry, quick to fight and make up. Some of the little ones need hugs from the teacher (reassurance). Children need to be hugged and petted just like puppies and rhesus monkies OR THEY DO NOT GROW UP NORMALLY. Some crave it and some are getting enough attention at home. Inexperienced bosses can overreact to a few tears and make matters worse. Some of them give big sucker candy and baloons to the kids just before classes and this is very disruptive. Timing is important, wait for the finale, the exit. Bosses also allow in-line skates and personal toys in the class, also very disruptive. No child is going to speak English with a big lolly pop sticking out the mouth. Candy is overused as a reward. Try cut fruits and vegetables and teach preparation, sharing and clean-up.