How important are high gunnels for little kids in a boat?

[Jim in CT]

In another thread, I mentioned that I am very seriously considering pulling thr trigger on a Privateer 24 center console. My wife was on board till I showed her photos, when she commented on the low sides.

we have a 4 year old, a 1 year old, and one on the way. I have been on a Privateer many times, but I never thought about the low gunnels (they are only knee high, like a Twin Vee). I want to have this boat a long time, and I want my kids to enjoy themselves and be safe.

To those of you who boat with little kids...would you hesitate to get a boat with really low gunnels, if you liked everything else about the boat?

Thanks for any suggestions.