Are Model Scale Trains Toys Or Something More?
Are model scale trains toys or something more than that? Most of us typically think of model scale trains as the kind of toy that both children and adults can enjoy. But is it accurate to even call model trains toys? Calling them toys diminishes their value because it sounds like a frivolous pastime for children. But that perception might not be warranted. Research has proven the cognitive benefits of play not only for youngsters but also for adults. We all benefit from play. Problem solving, creativity, socialization, and self esteem are just a few examples of what we gain from play. Calling scale model trains a hobby instead of toys may sound a bit more sophisticated, especially for adults who love building them. The model railroading hobby grows with a person. There are lots of hobbyists who have spent decades perfecting their train sets, and even passed them down to the next generation. Perhaps they did not plan it that way from the start. Most beginners to this hobby start with a
Most of us typically think of model scale trains as the kind of toy that both children and adults can enjoy. But is it accurate to even call model trains toys? Calling them toys diminishes their value because it sounds like a frivolous pastime for children. But that perception might not be warranted. Research has proven the cognitive benefits of play not only for youngsters but also for adults. We all benefit from play. Problem solving, creativity, socialization, and self esteem are just a few examples of what we gain from play. Calling scale model trains a hobby instead of toys may sound a bit more sophisticated, especially for adults who love building them. The model railroading hobby grows with a person. There are lots of hobbyists who have spent decades perfecting their train sets, and even passed them down to the next generation. Perhaps they did not plan it that way from the start. Most beginners to this hobby start with a simple kit, which can be assembled relatively quickly. As
