Go with a boxer. They don't get too big, but they're big enough that kids can get a little rough with them. They also tend to have very high pain tolerance, so they won't get pissed and nip at kids if they tug on their ears or wrestle with them (they love play-fighting). They shed a little, but their short brown hair makes it so it's not ta big deal. Just don't get an all white one or the shedding will be a nightmare...plus white boxers are more prone to cancer and other health defects. They're pretty smart and learn easily. They typically love people and usually get along with other dogs as well. Both of mine have been very social.
Pit bulls are fairly similar in size and temperament, although they come with an unfortunate negative stigma.
No idea on breeders, as I haven't lived in Ohio in almost a decade. They're one of the ten most popular dog breeds in the US, though, so surely there's several within driving distance of you.
Every time I take my boxer out to local bars, even when I'm with my friends with other dogs, I always get half a dozen people come up and tell me about how they had a boxer when they were a kid and loved it, or how their parents have a boxer and they miss it, or some other similar story. My girlfriend always gets pissed because no one ever comes up to pet her dog.