Dotsie, I have a lab mix who is terrified of children. She was a stray before I took her in and it's possible she was abused or mistreated by some kids. Years later she still runs and hides around any children and will pull me off my feet to get away from them.

And, as the consciousness of the planet has raised, so has the consciousness of animals-- they are more like children themselves complete with a full range of emotions and feelings. Maybe it would help if you spend extra time with your fur kid before and after the children leave so she remembers she's special.

Also, she just may not like or care for children-- maybe if she's given the choice of being in a separate area of the house when children are around so that if she wants to socialize she can and if she doesn't that's fine too. Probably once she realizes that her feelings will be respected she'll feel calmer and happier. :-)

Best, Kelly