This has developed into an interesting thread. However, Doug, I would suggest a different approach. They are both at a good age for them to be involved. My suggestion would be to let them design and define the layout. Visit a train station, train show, or open house. Leave your train magazines laying around or point out something of interest. This will help provide them with a conceptual understanding of the industry and the hobby. They can use a program to design the track plan and they are old enough to be shown how to do the wiring. Perhaps even use the bench work you have and have them reconfigure the area. At their ages we learned the fundamentals of electricity, carpentry, and creative design. I blew a few fuses but I survived, learned from it and moved on. You can also show them how to service the engines.
What I learned during those developmental years is still with me. Now instead of blowing fuses I occasionally trip a breaker. Plus, they will have the fond remembrance of what they learned from their granddad. And that they will carry forward.
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