I have two German Shepherds right now, a brother and sister from the same breed. I've always had full blooded labs in the past, and the shepherds compare to them across the board as far as friendly temperament towards people and patience for kids.

The shepherds have noticeably more curiosity and insane noses that can smell out anything you're trying to hide from them, but they're both big teddy bears when it comes to their owners. The female is also much more protective than any lab I've ever had and patrols our house and backyard like she's being paid to do so.

The male is just a big softie and a momma's boy, he's scared of thunder, fireworks, and his own shadow. He's extremely timid and lets his sister beat up on him, take all the bones and treats, and hump his face mercilessly. The female is by far more fierce and protective, but she's also extremely sweet and just wants to cuddle with her humans. I've never had a dog that is so attached to their human's side and insistent on protecting them at all times like the female german shepherd. She shadows us as we move anywhere around the house and outside like a paid security guard.

The male is very aloof and easy going, timid, wouldn't hurt a fly even if it were biting him between the eyes. But he's also extremely smart and has a nose that can sniff out his bone anywhere in the house no matter how well you've hidden it, when the female can't. Because he's so smart he gets bored easily and gets lazy, he doesn't even like to go outside. He is also far more obedient than her and listens to orders without being defiant, he will go to his kennel as soon as you tell him to go to his room unlike her.

TLDR - they are great dogs and would be great for kids they're raised around. You won't find a more protective dog for your kids, but also one that will cuddle up to them on the couch and be gentile with them. They have their own challenges because they're so smart and need stimulation and rewards, but I haven't had a more loyal and protective breed than them.