Kids Table, Feed Them First Or... ?

It's been a long time since I entertained a large group for shabbat that included many small children.   Kids can be a wonderful addition to the table or they can be a distraction - and its nearly impossible to know in advance whether the kids in question are best seated at a kids table in the dining room, fed first then allowed to go play, or some combination - 

I'd love to get some feedback from parents with small children - Any thoughts or suggestions?