First things first though, you have to start by getting their attention. If you want your children to learn, find something that interests them. For preschool children it can be quite simple, relate the lessons to them. Children are very interested in themselves, so use that to your advantage. If you want them to recognize letters and letter sounds, start with the letters in their name. Suzy will be all too happy to discuss the letter "S" once she knows that her name starts with it. Now that the discussion has started, build reminders into her play centers. Let her continue the discussion with her friends while creating a puppet show.
As children get older, and the lessons get more complex, you will need to think beyond their names. May I suggest captivating them with literature? I'm not talking about just reading a book; tell them a story. Of course the story is going to be the one written by the author, but realize that reading aloud is more than just saying the words that are printed on the page. Set the scene, create characters (the more distinct the voices, the better), read with passion, and they will enjoy it! They will want to talk about it. Let them. Talking will help them convert it to memory and it will help them make meaning of it for themselves. You can help them focus their discussions with some appropriate questions. Help them make connections by asking them "What did it make you think of?" or "Who is this character similar to?" or "How might have the story been different if...?" By allowing your children to discuss the story they heard opens up many avenues for comprehension; but, most importantly, it gets them interested. They will want to recreate it on their own, thus opening the door to literacy a little bit wider.
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