Wood tops are going to be a maintenance issue no matter what you do with them, especially if you have children that are going to be using them. Most durable topcoats cure so hard, that there really isn’t a way to repair them without sanding them down and starting over. If you really want a wood top to match your cabinetry, look at using an already distressed wood, like reclaimed woods, or have the countertop manufacturer distress the top for you. Here is a photo of a wood top that we distressed and finished for a client. This gives it unique character to start, and then future damage will ‘blend’ in.
On another note, true 'Butcherblock' tops are not stained and topcoated, they are simply sealed with an oil, typically a mineral oil, but this doesn't work so well if you will be setting things like 'homework papers' on it, because they will absorb the oil.
Hopefully that answers your question. There are other things to consider as well, but I'm trying not to be too lengthy with my response.

You are amazing! Thank you soooo much for your feedback! This is my first remodel and a bit overwhelming;0) love the idea of using reclaimed wood, it already comes with a story that we can add to!!! Thank you!!!

Oooh, yah. Remodels can get that way. If you haven't started yet, keep reading, but if you've already started, don't...a piece of advice to make your life easier, make as many, if not all, of your decisions/choices before starting. This helps with the stress level, because once it begins, the stress is only going to get worse. And it usually ends up compounding itself when you are under-the-gun to make a choice.

Best of luck to you!

ha ha ha...Well good! I've got one day left before the contractor starts 8-) I've "almost" solidified my choices :0) I've decided against the wood, going with good old granite! I don't want to worry every time Lily pulls out a craft supply! I'm just narrowing my choices now on farmhouse sinks...so many choices!!! Too much fun! Any advice on copper sinks?

I don't know if you can or not, but look under my "discussions". I just answered another gal who was curious about copper sinks. See if you can find it, and that should be of some help. Let me know if you can't, and I'll just copy and forward the discussion along to you.

"A living piece of art"... Very nicely put! Thanks!