In my opinion, the German Shepard is the first choice for people with kids, that also want ample protection of their home and property, and they will gain a trusting friend.
As a former owner of a white german shephard male, I fully agree with the temperment of shephards. What you see is what you get. They don't transition into different modes of behavior. Very smart dogs and good with kids.
Unfortunately, we had a few dogs and when he was coming in the dog door, the lab was going out, and both were at cat chasing speed. The head on crash left the shephard killed instantly on the spot from a broken neck. The lab was found a few feet away with temporary paralysis. He recovered. To all you dog owners out there, never get a swinging dog door that is not clear plastic.