We are researching a trip to Rome during the first week of April, which is between Palm Sunday and Easter, and are concerned about closings of sites, shops, restaurants, etc. Obviously churches would be busy but we would appreciate any tips on whether it will be difficult to go to museums and so forth. We have been to Rome before, but not during this time frame. We also are bringing our 4-year old son with us for his first trip to Italy so any tips on kid-friendly (or kid-avoid) sites/restaurants, etc. would be appreciated. Thanks.

Sites, shops, restaurants and museums do not close during Holy Week. The Colosseum closes early on Good Friday because of the Way of the Cross with the pope. St. Peter's Basilica (and San Giovanni in Laterano) is closed to visitors before, during and after papal events. They are listed here:
http://www.vatican.va/news_services/..._en.html#APRIL 2012

I've been in Rome at Easter before. It was very crowded. The Vatican Museums closed early even though it wasn't listed on their website. Most things are closed Easter Monday also.

If there's an early closing at the Vatican Museums, it's indicated, sometimes at short notice, under Announcement here:
http://mv.vatican.va/3_EN/pages/MV_Home.html

That week is the only one where I'd make train reservations asap. People visit family and schools let out.

Our one experience was that churches were open longer. On Easter Sunday in Bellagio, stores were open in the a.m.

Make reservations for Easter meal as well. Ours was wonderful!