There are three different kids groups, all important, being addressed in the comments:
- kids/teenagers functioning solo or only with age peers (how most of us started)
- kid(s) and involved parent(s)
- grandkids with grandparents driving the effort.
The groups have different advantages and challenges. The original post (and many or most of the replies) was aimed at the third group. As described at the top of the original post, group 3 probably has the advantages of boxes of old gear, more money available, more time on the part of the grandparent. But the disadvantages of limited time with the grandkid(s) unless they live next door, the peer coolness of things other than trains, etc..
All comments have been interesting and helpful. One that was particularly striking was creating a satellite (my term - not the respondent's) layout at the kids home - with the real layout still at grandpa's. At home (rather than at grandpa's place) the kids have much more time to mess around, on their own, when they feel like it, drill holes, try wiring, try different track layouts, mess with scenery, plaster, paint, etc. Like we started.
I suspect, as is true in my case, most grandpas have plenty of surplus and working gear to mostly supply what's needed. The challenge is space at the kids' home; I'm now negotiating this with my daughter and son in law. I've suggested a table (4X12) that operates resting on a carpet-ball table (that is 2x12, folds up) I built them. When not in use, the train table would go directly up to the ceiling. With 1 ft spacers so the table can remain as is and buildings & such not get crushed.
A satellite layout at their home would allow the kids to involve their friends, very important. No problem taking the friends to grandpas once the friend is interested. A satellite layout at their home will also enable roping in mom and dad. (When the kids come to our place, they usually stay overnight but their parents just provide some of the transportation, This form of kids visit allows the parents to get other things done or take a break from the 4 kids.)
Ed
