When I was living in the UK I used to help my Dad train security dogs, we'd always get rescue dogs because they really do deserve a second chance at happiness.
The best dogs we had were pitbulls - we never trained our dogs for aggression, just to make lots of noise if there was an intruder but on the few cases that a burglar was not scared away by the dog and they came too close to me or my father, the dog would always latch on and hold the burglar there til police arrived or til the dog was 'released'.
They are the most loving, loyal and wonderful dogs I can think of, and naturally great with kids! My dog Dug will sit patiently and let small kids (and grown ups alike!) he's never met pet him while we're in the pet shop picking up new chewy sticks for him (he goes through so many! haha).
I am so glad that you love pitbulls too!! They need more love, they have a bad rap for no reason ;~;