in general terms...1...laminate will cost about$4.00/ $5.00 a sf materials only flabor add $2.50 a sf.....2 ..carpet will cost about $3.00 a sf installed for you.
laminate will stand up to kids and dogs ,no problem...(better than carpet)
laminate is an easy diy if you have some skills.....
heres what i would do go to your local home depot,ask to see the hampton laminate (made by shaw) its at a reduced price right now of $1.99.you might want to buy the video on how to install ($8.00)also home depot has a free class on how to install