This place is fantastic...I shouldn't say I was surprised because there was no reason to have low expectations. I suppose we were just at the point in the weekend where we had done so much, had a good time, and were getting a little weary. "Let's just do it, we're here," we thought.
To start with, the building (combined with the Museum of Natural History) is stunning -- majestic columns, open public spaces, and cozy smaller galleries as well.
Staff was warm and helpful, asking our interests before making recommendations of how to spend our time.
Particularly skillful was a member of staff in the gift shop who, in the most polite but authoritative manner, managed, in one quick request, to convince our daughter to put down the Superball (we had already been working on this but apparently lack the right approach). [Side note: Why would they sell superballs alongside a large stock of Tiffany-style lamps?]
In the gallery itself, audio guides are free, and, when working, a great way to extend the visit with children. It's amazing what little kids will listen to (art history) when they get to pick the painting.
A very small number of paintings have audio material designed for children (the narrator is a CAT) -- hopefully the Museum will expand this service.