re: Ireland with kids

I second getting out of Dublin. Also, look at flying into Shannon (SNN) instead, that's where I flew into both times. It's basically on the Ring of Kerry where you'll probably go anyway.

Be careful with renting large vehicles. I rented a Nissan Micra and getting through some underpasses was... interesting. You don't have a choice, but plan your routes carefully.

Cliffs of Moher
Galway is just a cool city, and it's seaside.
Kylemore Abbey (the scenery to get there is 50% of the fun)
The Rock of Cashel
Ring of Kerry

Don't pick too much stuff to create a hard itinerary out of. There are odd bits of castles, towers and fortifications in the middle of nowhere that your kids will probably make you pull over for.

If you were going near the warm season, planning some picnic lunches outdoors would have been a fine idea.

Also, roll into any town, stop for lunch at a pub with the kids. The Irish will know you're from out of town, and they will want to know all about you and why you've come. There will be no shortage of suggestions from the locals in small/mid sized towns.