I have three little ones (two of which are boys who love to play army men) and I have a Llama .45 which is loaded (unchambered), a .22 savage (love it) and a .270 remington model 721...

I wouldn't dream of leaving the gun out unlocked (I bought a locked cabinet (from sentinel) from walmart under $99). Kid's are too curious to leave the temptation out. It's doubtful that they could ever jack a round into the gun since my wife has a hard time loading the llama, but why take the chance.

I do keep some pepper spray near the door, and the key to the cabinet is easily accessible in a high area where the kid's can't get at them... I live in the country and have three dogs so I don't think we would be easily surprised.

Bottom line, it is too risky to leave weapons out where children can access them... Statistically speaking I would venture to say that leaving them out would be more dangerous than a possible intruder break in...