Guinea pig lovers! What type of a fury friend shall I get?  

I'm glad you really mean for yourself! Because the kids won't care for them for long, and need to be supervised in any case. :)

I've been rescuing guinea pigs for over 4 years now. I've found almost no difference in the breeds except, a few notes for you:

1. Skinnies and baldwins (hairless) - I would absolutely NOT recommend these. They are incredibly difficult to keep at proper temperature, are not as hardy due to poor genetics (breed to have poor immune systems since they were originally for lab use), and because they are more susceptible to ringworm (not something you want your kids to get!). I must say they are a horrible choice.
2. Peruvians - be prepared to trim hair! Or do a lot of brushing.
3. Texels - special hair care or lots of trims, and they tend to have dry skin issues more than other breeds, and seem to cause allergies with more people for some reason
4. Teddies - same allergy frequency problem as texels, and dry skin thing too
5. Silkies - hair cut and combing issues
6. Satins - seem to have more problem with calcium issues... yes, they're nice and shiny, but that comes at a price.

Other than that, I'd say breeds are pretty much the same personality wise and all of that.

I'd recommend checking out a rescue or shelter to see a great variety of piggies available. Make sure to get a pair as they are social animals. Check out www.guinealynx.info for great care information. Best of luck!