There are plenty of easy day trips from AMS as well, and train fares aren't too expensive--just have someone show you how to use the train ticket machine as the ones outside AMS Centraal Station aren't labeled in English.

On a trip to the Netherlands in April, I spent half my time based in Haarlem, half in A'dam and did day trips to Leiden, Den Haag, Aalkmar, Zaanse Schaans, Hoorn, Utrecht, and there are many other cute Dutch citites that are an easy day trip as well. Kids will enjoy Madurodam, "Holland in Miniature" near Den Haag.

Canal cruises are always fun, and the flat terrain is perfect for cycling. AMS has an easy to use tram system to get around town to visit the Van Gogh and Rijksmuseums, Anne Frank House, Maritime Museum, the Oudekerke in the Red Light District, the Heineken Brewery, and much more.

A good guidebook will give you lots of ideas. Unfortunately, mine is packed away right now, so I can't give you as many specifics as I'd like to.I have a few pictures on the web site listed in my profile.

Good luck!