Good DSLR camera to photograph children?

My husband and I are looking into purchasing a DSLR camera. We have been looking at the Canon EOS Rebel t3i and the NikonD5100. They are both priced roughly the same. From what I can tell the Canon has more MP than the Nikon but not much. My husband and I really know very little about dslr cameras. I just know I want one that doesn't have a slow speed in between pictures and can take good action shot pictures as my boys play sports. Maybe there's even another camera that would fit better that I haven't come across yet? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

The canon 7d is really good for sport, high shutter speed, and really good auto focus. It's at the higher price range for entry level DSLR'S Though.

EOS Rebel t3i, is a good choice but i really do love the speed and accuracy of the 7d.

MP isn't going to be all that important with DSLR's they are all going to be in a decent enough range.

Nikons are excellent