When I was a Gold, this scenario got me upgraded into an upstairs/ downstairs suite.

I had checked in behind the Brady bunch. I was unfortunately placed next to them and went do to the front desk a few moments later and asked very nicely what we could do about this.(Kids will be kids and they were having a blast!) Great customer service on the front desks part, they kindly upgraded me on the spot.

Having 5 children, 4 of which are grown and out on their own, I do empathize with family's traveling with children.
My wife and I always asked for ground floors if available and subsequently taught our children that the same rules applied in the hotel as in home.
No running, screaming or fighting. (a lot of times it even worked :-) )