I know Cocker Spaniels are good with children, I'm not sure about the poodle breed.
I would def get a puppy, so the puppy can grow up around your children.
Have you ever thought about a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
It is in the Spaniel family.. I love those dogs. My neighbor has one, and she has 2 kids 7 and 4 and she does great with them. Her name is Rylee, she also comes over to play with Peanut, and she is just a joy to be around. She is still a puppy about 8 months and she is soo gentle with Peanut.