What kind of bee wasp or hornet is this? Pics included.?

They are hunting wasps in the family Sphecidae, and I'm afraid I can't give you a more precise identification. Anyway, this is an absolutely wonderful opportunity for your kids to make their own discoveries in nature. These wasps are fascinating in their behaviour. Usually, you can get your nose within a few inches of them without disturbing them, and there's absolutely no chance of being stung. They emerge from their burrow, maybe close the entrance (depending on the species), circle around to memorize the landmarks, return with prey, and run the gauntlet of parasites, especially little grey flies (miltogrammine tachinids) that rush up and deposit their eggs on the prey before the wasp can disappear down the burrow. Your kids can learn a whole lot by watching.