The upholstered chairs look very formal to me, and then with a 3 y/o and a 6 y/o look like a disaster waiting to happen. The trestle table you've chosen seems much less formal. You could look into ladderback chairs with good quality tie-on cushions, I had these and I was able to put the cushions right into the washing machine when needed with no problems.

I think your table would suit a combination of wicker (which the kids could sit on - and have pads that you could wash) and slipcovered captains chairs. It will feel younger, comfortable yet a touch on formal side, but not too far in that direction.

Milton Ga · More Info

Wood chairs is my vote. With wooden chairs you can do slip covers or chair pads in any color and change them anytime. This would make redecorating cheaper and easier. With children and meals there is always a chance of spills and/or messy hands touching and wiping; clean up with wooden chairs is so much easier. You can get the best of both worlds by having upholstered chairs at each end and wooden chairs on the side with matching chair pads.

Sorry forgot to add pictures

Crystal cove · More Info

Hollywood Hills Transitional · More Info

Ah.. Ok then Those style of chairs yiu have posted pics of above are a bit formal to have around the house. Parsons type chairs would work better for you. I think a nice tweed fabric would be great w that table.

Caned back chairs would work well with your table and in other rooms like hallways and bedrooms. They are traditional for your husband, can use seat cushions for your children and are versatile - the room below is a great example...classic but casual, which is the way dining rooms are heading.

Custom Belle Park Home · More Info

Another look...and you could add great seat covers.

Fairleigh Fields Host Chair · More Info

Great Room · More Info

Upholsetered with leather sears? Best of both worlds...