I see where you are coming from, but to be honest, you don't "HAVE" to learn kids shows. If you are going to work in a restaurant, knowing how to handle a family table including some children, will be important. However, the necessity to learn an entire kids show only comes if you agree to do a kids show.
If you are wanting to be well versed in all areas of magic entertainment, then yes, pick up the references that Reverhart mentioned.
Myself, although I can handle a small kids show using sponge bunnies/ sponge balls, Rocky the Raccoon, Balloon animals, comedy cups and balls, etc... I will only agree to do a kids show if I am that desperate for money.