Here's a good overview of both breeds. You will see that they share almost all the same pros and cons:
http://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/maltese.html http://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/rev...eterriers.html
They both have the same warning:
Yorkshire Terriers/Maltese are NOT suited to children, no matter how well-meaning the child. Children cannot help being clumsy, and that a child meant well is little solace to a Yorkshire Terrier who has been accidentally stepped on, sat on, rolled on, squeezed, or dropped onto the patio. Most Yorkshire Terriers feel overwhelmed by the loud voices and quick movements that children can't help making -- and stress and fearfulness (even defensive biting) may be the result.