I don't know your reasons for excluding the kids, but if you can help it...don't. Get them their own "junkers" to play with and slowly work with them on how to handle the "good stuff".
Our five year old handles most of our N-Gauge like a pro now....:)
Bob Berger, C.O.O. N-ovation & Northwestern R.R. My patio layout....SEE IT HERE
There's no place like ~/ ;)
Welcome to the forum and Happy Trains Christmas. For a layout with kids, Three rules:
1. Make it as secure as possible
2. Teach the kids how to treat the train
3. Plan for some "Events"
Oh yes 4. Have fun.