Thanks a bunch guys. Lots of good things to think about. My last layout was a version of the Atlas scenic and relaxed. I had it double tracked and scenicked the whole thing. So I'll be re-learning some of the things I used to know.
My wife is actually starting to get the "bug" about helping build a layout. So that's a great thing for both of us. I do want to build with future growth in mind. The kids will also be given crtain tasks to do as this progresses. I am thinking about sitting them down with some of my old rolling stock and helping them do some painting. the goal, of course, to teach them some skills, and allow them to feel like they do indeed have a hand in building this empire!
Remember though, this isn't alway going to be a layout for really young kids. I n five years a couple of loops isn't going to cut it.
How about something like Dave's Vollmer's Pennsy layout:
http://kc.pennsyrr.com/layouts/dvollmer/Trackplan.php
Double track main, good fun for now, enough interest for later. With the extra length you could pretty much extend it, and add a couple more industries, or just go with it as it is.
Jeff But it's a dry heat!
Having a little experience with children, public operating displays, museum operating displays and various home layouts, might I suggest two level loops with no grades or switches for maximun train running enjoyment. However, put one of the loops at a higher elevation atop the other. Make sure the bottom loop crosses under the upper level at some point. the focal point of two trains passing over each other delights "kids" of all ages! The bottom and possibly the upper level would paek interest with a mountain in the far corners with tunnels. The inner area could be used for YOUR interest of switching, industries, town, etc. Make sure the "kids" trains are colorful and something THEY recognize, such as a favorite cartoon character or movie creation. Don't be affraid to paint up some older rolling stock with a different color on each side. Maximun viewing pleasure and mistique how the train can change colors around the loop! A couple of well placed LARGE push buttons for whistles, bells, horns, street lights, house lights, etc..complete the activity. Have fun, enjoy the kids while you can, & RUN TRAIN!
Don't forget to post a picture!
Wes
yeah I know........ I was typing away, needed to check in on my daughter, finished the last sentence and hit send.
So it is her fault I was late!!!!!
concretelackey wrote: 1st suggestion I have is to find a post by SPACE MOUSE in this forum (will be fairly easy to find) and click on the beginners guide link in his signature. He has compiled a literal how to of how to develop a layout concept.
1st suggestion I have is to find a post by SPACE MOUSE in this forum (will be fairly easy to find) and click on the beginners guide link in his signature. He has compiled a literal how to of how to develop a layout concept.
Should be very easy to find....
I fail to fall in the catagory of "o wise ones" but will assist a bit anyway.
2nd- being N scale and that the train crews will be young and inexperienced you may want to start very simple, both in track complexity and overall layout operation. Any structures added will need to be ableto withstand the occasional n-scale earthquake/giants from outerspace.
3rd-this link (http://www.trains.com/trccs/forums/1281768/ShowPost.aspx) may help in deciding what will fit and where it can fit.
4th- do a web search using n scale track plans, there are several sites that have small to medium plans that can offer some ideas. If you strike out there let me know and I'll email some links to you that I have.
The kids won't care about switching. What they will care about is wheteher or not it will run and stay on the track. What ever you don't invite them to come look until you have all the bugs worked out or you stand to loose them.
The layout will have a lot of competition from mp3 players and Wii, so build what you want to build, what interests you, and let them join in if they want. They will be more interested if you are getting into it than if you build it for them and say, "Here. Enjoy. Watching you enjoy it will tell them what to look for and they will want to try it too.
Chip
Building the Rock Ridge Railroad with the slowest construction crew west of the Pecos.
So, we are talking about a railfan layout with the potential to grow, or rather develop, operationally as the kids get older, as they surely will?
First off, I know that a layout is a personal thing. But I would rdeally like your input.
I have not been into model railraoding for at least 15 years. But now I have 3 grandshildrens who love to watch trains. So i will be starting a small layout for them to watch run. the oldest is 6 and can handle some operation I think, but the other 2 are still too young to comprehend the whole this makems the train go fast thing.
I have tons of N scale equipment so will be using that. After, of course, tuning uop the engines after years of sitting, etc. I know N scale isn't ideal for smaller people, but it's what I have and I will make it work.
I have an area of 30" by 11 feet that I'll be using. I would like to put something together that can run 2 trains with little or no elevation cahnges right now. Mainly to keep things running smoothly for the little ones to enjoy. I will add some sidings, a mountain and tunnel and a bridge or two here and there.
So any suggestions o wise ones? I'd really like to hear what you guys think I can do along these lines. thanks in addvance for any info.
Senior Chaplain Gary Hosfelt
Pataskala, Ohio