Should I get Whole Life or Universal Life insurance?

My husband and I need life insurance. We are in our early 30's and we are thinking about the future. I want insurance for the long run. My quote for whole life was almost double the premium for Universal. I have read a lot on here about universal and it's negative. So I don't know which one to go for.

Also, was thinking about getting life insurance on my children. I was going to get a 15 pay life policy. I pay very low premiums for 15 years then it is theirs to keep without other payments. Thought it would be a nice gift, any info on that?