Just a random question...

That's what I was thinking! 

Also at that age the kids will tell you if they aren't interested, are bored etc. either directly or indirectly through their behaviour. Ask them what they'd like to do, listen and try and make it work. Be flexible, don't impose your ideas of what the lesson should be if it is not working. Find something that does work. It may take a few lessons to find a format that everyone enjoys.

I agree that ChessKids has some great resources. I'd ask them to sign up to that site.

Also, kids love to learn tricks. Teach them scholar's mate and fool's mate. Maybe teach them the fried liver attack too.

And maybe put on a show where you have 30 seconds and they have 10 mins and they have to try to beat you.

But they're total beginners. They don't even know what hanging pieces are. 

LOL. 

Yes as others have pointed out have a tournament for them. Keep something of their favourite as a prize for performing well.

Hi - I'm the friend that @blackfirestone mentioned a few posts ago. I run a school chess club for kids aged 7-11 so most of my teaching is face to face, although I do now and again put on a video to vary things for them.

It sounds from what you've said as if you're in a new situation, although you have taught chess before. What's new about it for you? Is it that it's totally beginners? Is it that it's kids? Is it that it's online? Or is it a mix of all three?

All mix of three

a

Ok. I think there's been some good points already. Keep it fun, keep it interactive, quick Q and A sessions, try not to talk to long yourself at a time. Don't worry too much if something you'd planned isn't working - just switch to something else. Eventually you will find a way of doing things that works both for you and for them. There isn't a manual on doing this because every group of kids and every teacher is different. 

Good luck - and keep in touch. Let us know how it's going.

Ok

Do you mean like how to make it fun?

Yes.

Did you use some of the suggestions from my friend? 

😃

I teach high school and i lean heavily on cheesy humor/ my personality.  My students learn better after they have already invested in a relationship with their peers/teachers.  My classes are also heavily socratic. It should be easier for you though since they're already interested in chess. Just remember to engage with them first, the content will follow.

Cool!

do not beat them in chess, let your students beat you, so they can learn the basics and have fun.

Put on clown makeup and make fart jokes.