How should we get more kids involved in model railroading?

[alexweiihman]

I think that train manufactures should start making cheaper engins that kids can afford.  K-line got the Idea when they started their huskey locos but then they went bust.

[c50truck]

Youth involvement begins with the adults. Look at some of the early postwar ads and catalogs for Lionel, AF or Marx. They show Dads and child. The same holds true today. Our local astronomy club works hard to get kids involved with the stars and science. The volunteers work with youth groups through out the city. They even help kids build their own telescopes for a small cost or none at all.

So contact a local train group and ask for assistance, you’ll be surprised by the response. I say that because I’ve noticed time and again on this forum, adults bringing trains to youth.

Rod L

[alexweiihman]

thanks for the info 3railguy its not only the fact of getting kids involved in model railroading but also making it accesible to them, a locomotive and even a ytrain car are pretty expensive, it takes me months to purchase a new locomotive

 

[3railguy]

 Just to toss some thoughts around.

1) Start a modular club and set up at your local shopping mall during the holiday rush. Press Lionel for starter set flyers to pass out.

2) Invite as many kids around your neighborhood as you can to see your layout. For the ones who are really thrilled, give them back issues of train magazines to take home.

 

[alexweiihman]

As a young model railroader i am concerned about the little amount of kids in this hobby.  Whenever I am at the TCA shows I am the youngest guy there.   How can we promote this great hobby to children?