Ok, for starters. The hobby won't die. There will always be somebody interested.
For a good layout.. hmm. Well this list is taking into consideration layouts on the floor and layouts on tables.
1. Motive power and electronics. I find steam to be the motive power that draws all the kids in. This goes for postwar, prewar, and modern engines. TMCC, Legacy, DCS, LionChief, and Conventional are all great systems but I prefer and recommend TMCC and LionChief. Of course if your aiming for a postwar layout that's fine too.
2. Track. Choose tracks that are kid friendly such as Lionel Fastrack or MTH Realtrax. They are essentially the same thing and both work great. (But once again if you run postwar or prewar, the best is tubular track)
3. Scenery. Apparently a common thought is that kids don't bother with scenery. I disagree. It may be a good idea to put a few trees here and there like the Christmas ones that have wide bases. Just spray the tree plain green and paint the snow bottom brown or green. If your like me you'll just slap down a green grass mat and call it a day.
4. Accessories. One of the most important and eye catching details of a layout. I tend to use simple accessories such as the milk car and automatic gateman. They usually draw attention.
5. Rolling Stock. Run flashy, appealing freight cars like those in the post and prewar eras. MPC can also be included in this.
That's all I got.
