Step Ladder/Platform so Children Can See Layout

[Anonymous]

I'm building a layout at a height that is in line with current layout design practice, probably around 50", although I can't recall the exact height.

I have two sons, ages 3 and 6. I'd like to build a platform/step ladder (or two) for them to use so they can enjoy the layout.

I'm curious if any of you here might have dealt with this before, and would be able to provide some input on the subject.

I'm interested in basic design concepts that have worked well or even those that I might want to avoid for one reason or another.

This is most likely a problem with a simple solution - I'm planning on building a simple step ladder, with probably an overside top step, but I thought I'd throw it out there to see if anyone has anything to add.

Thanks for reading,

John

[cwaldman]

I actually use a chair and move it to where the child wants to look. While i do not have children of my own, I have had the odd niece and nephew stop by for a look. They need something. I doubt you would want anything permanant. On the other hand, a step ladder may be problem if they start to fall. May want to add something for them to hold onto. Selfishly you don't want them grabbing at or falling on the lay to steady themselves or prevent falling. Realistically you just don't want them to fall period.

Once they get wrapped up in watching a train etc, they are bound to eventually mistep and need something to grab on to.

Doubt i offered a solution, but maybe some advice if you go the ladder route.

Happy holidays.

Cletus

[hminky]

Go to Walmart, they have a Kitchen two-step ladder. It is sturdy and has a high rail on the back. It only costs about $8.00. It is light enough a child can move it around. I discovered it's use during my open house. I have my layout at 50" and it worked very well.
Hope that helps
Harold

[Anonymous]

That sounds perfect Harold, thanks for the tip!

John

[cacole]

Fifty inches is pretty high for a layout -- most are around 42 inches, and even at that height you need something for children to stand on. At our club open houses, we have some empty wood boxes made of plywood that are about 14 inches high, 14 inches wide, and 24 inches long, that we put around for children to stand on. The two-step step stools are good, too, since they have a handle, but they do tend to tip over easily if you're not careful getting on or off, and children do get carried away sometimes.

[BR60103]

I have a couple of small plastic step stools (2 steps) that I use for small children and for myself when working on the railroad. They don't tip because the feet go right out to the corners.
If I were giving specs, I would include a railing around the front and sides -- it's too easy to start moving to the side and forget where the stool ends.

[IRONROOSTER]

John, my suggestion is to forget current practice and lower the train table. You'll have plenty of time after the children are grown to build a tall layout. My suggestion is to build it 30" and enjoy it with your boys. They'll love building it with you. You can always sit in a chair if you want to have a "higher" layout.
Enjoy
Paul

[leighant]

For occasional short visitors to an open house, I built a couple of wooden step stools, patterned "loosely" after the step stool the conductor or car attendant uses to assist passengers aboard a train. Painted them with the herald of my railroad. I should have made them with a little less less. They are hard to turn over as is, but possible. Better to make them IMPOSSIBLE to turn over, if that is possible.

I agree a two-step ladder with a "holding onto" rail is better.

For accomodating a wheelchair-bound modeler to my high layout, I once built a periscope. They modeler was less than totally satisfied but admitted I was "trying". But he put a funny emphasis on the word "trying", like it had some reverse meaning...

[Anonymous]

John

I built my layout at 50" due to an auto being parked in the trainroom. I built my 3 year old a 2'x2' platform from 4x4 posts (legs) 3/4 plywood as the platform and 2x4's as the rail.
He can climb up and down and can see all the action.
Its also sturdy enough for me to stand on.
At 50" I have had to cut in some access holes to reach crital areas.