I completely support rescues/shelter adoptions too. Generally most will err on the side of caution and if there is any doubt (from past history if aquired or observed behaviours) they will note the dog is not to be rehomed with children. We have only ever had rescue dogs, my latest I adopted in June, and she is working out perfectly. Yes we had to do basic obedience at one year old, yes she was a bit jumpy, but if you're willing to put in the work to shape the behaviour of the dog, the reward will be there in the end. (That's presuming that the dog needs work in the first place!) And so many people willingly buy puppies from pet shops, yet overlook all the beautiful older dogs needing a home too.

Perhaps look at the nation wide pet rescue shelter directory, that lists dogs available for rehoming in each state, and you might be more comfortable choosing a dog that has been in foster care as opposed to only being observed in a shelter situation. Fosters have generally spent more time in a family setting, many of them with children and other animals.

I do firmly believe that it takes at least a month for the dog to really settle into it's environment and start to show it's true self, especially if it has been impounded or in a shelter environment, so patience and understanding is a must. Best of luck with finding your new family member and be sure to let us know how you go!