Layover in Amsterdam

Thank you. Are there lockers that we can store our carry ons?

I agree with Steve that you have enough time if you keep your eye on the clock. I'd have to add and subtract from his list, however.

My first stop would be the Amsterdam Historic Museum (spelled much the same way, but I can't do it). It's just past Dam square in the same direction you'd be coming.

The Anne Frank house would have to be a maybe. It's a bit of a far hike. More importantly, I took my daughter there (she'd just read the book for reasons that had nothing to do with trip preparation) who was then of about the same age as Anne. She was certainly not sheltered, but it rattled her cage for a couple of days. In fact, we took her back the next day because she wanted to learn more. She now has kids of her own, but still remembers those two days vividly. For perspective, she's now an emergency room nurse. There's a lot to see, so watch your time and remember how long it took you to get there.

As mentioned, none of my kids were sheltered, but I sure didn't take them through the red light district.

I can't help with luggage storage.

I'd certainly put the Anne Frank Huis as a top destination during a layover visit in Amsterdam. I took my then 11 and 9 year old girls there during a layover and it took us about 15 minutes to walk from Centraal station. Very much a leisurly walk with enough time to take photos of the bicycle parking garage next to the train station and other interesting photo ops. You don't need more than an hour to visit the small site and the adjacent exhibition. However, line-ups can be long especially if there's large school classes scheduled for the day (remember, this is a VERY small space the Frank family was cramped in). So take advantage of the option to make online reservations for your tickets well in advance.

With kids in tow, I'm going to suggest a very different itinerary which features a more modern and contemporary side of Amsterdam. Instead of walking south from Centraal Station to Dam Square, walk east to the Science Museum (Nemo), and the new city library:

Map

Docked in front of the Science Museum is a massive 17th century warship on loan from the Maritime Museum. You can go aboard the ship and walk around and explore. After that checkout the Science Museum; it's very kid friendly. After that checkout the brand new City Library. It's big, very modern and high-tech, with lots of comfortable places to relax. It's unlike any library you will have every been to. On the top floor is a La Place eatery. It's kind of like an upscale cafeteria, with outdoor rooftop seating and commanding views of the city.

http://www.e-nemo.nl/en/

Thank you everyone for your great suggestions. I hope our flights are on time and we will be able to have a small taste of Amsterdam.