Some handful! Can it be done? Each activity hs been designed to be within the scope of a 9-12 year old. When in doubt, it was kid-tested. Up front, it will be acknowledged that the equipment to be used does have a price tag; however, once a tool is mastered, it will stay with the child for a lifetime. Some space will be required. This interest area could become a lifetime interest growing in skills.
The use of the drill press, bandsaw, belt-disc sander, etc., will be encouraged as part of the instruction. Thousands of kids operated industrial type equipment in industrial arts shops without injury. Safety and proper use is the key.
The vehicle, the train layout, are two 30" wide by 7'-6" tables constructed and attached end-to-end thus measuring 15 foot. (They may be stored vertically in a 30" x 18" space each.) It is important that once constructed, operation, movement of the trains, is varied and interesting. This plan with its fifty feet of track, seven turnouts (switches) and two turntables allow a continual change of operation.
The concepts herein were developed while teaching industrial arts in the public school realizing that the concepts and operations taught were common with model railroading - but at less cost and more motivation!
Tom Murray, BS, MS
vocation certification in wood, metal, +