They're not usually too tough to call and shoot but I enjoy seeing and hearing them. I wouldn't worry too much about the kids and certainly not your dog. That big sucker will outweigh coyotes by a 4 to 1 ratio. Just knowing it is around should keep coyotes cautious.

I have neighbors with small children. Coyotes have never been a problem. They have never even bothered the neighbors puppies. (Darned shame). Come to think of it, I'd rather have coyotes than neighbors.

You might talk to the animal control people if you're really worried but I expect they will tell you that there are more coyotes than they can ever catch.

I would probably consider them a plus. They do a lot of rodent and pest control. BTW, if you do shoot one, you might want to hold your nose when you approach it. They eat a lot of carrion and sometimes smell like it.