A model train set is a precious thing, especially to those of us who delight in retreating from the real world from time to time to indulge in activities that we have full control of.
With a model train set we can build and craft to our hearts content, designing track configurations and even the surrounding countryside! Heavens, we can even own New York Central, albeit on a slightly smaller scale than the real deal although the Lionel New York Central train set is a masterpiece in it’s own right.
The thing about a train set though is that it can easily become the center of attention in any household with kids from 2 to 20 years old. I often have wondered why that is when you consider all the amenities and gadgets available to the kids of today.
I think there are three main reasons for this:
1) They can see the mechanics of the train actually working, which many of them find fascinating.
2) A model train set cries out to be handled. They can pick things up, turn things around and create something new – there is a direct, visible cause and effect link which is often absent in computer games.
3) They can invite a horde of mates around and all engage in the same activity.
The other reason is of course age dependent – if they are pre-teenage then they enjoy spending time playing with Dad. On the other hand, teenagers and older delight in preventing Dad from relaxing and enjoying himself with the latest edition to his electric train set.
The bottom line is that if you have kids in the house, you cannot hope to claim ownership of your model train set – and I for one am extremely grateful for that!