Train Sets for Christmas:

Lionel O Gauge Train Set

• Recommendation: "I'd personally recommend an O gauge train set from Lionel."
• Pros:
  • High-quality O gauge train set.
  • Various retailers sell them, including Train World and Model Train Stuff.
  • Easy set-up with Lionel Fastrack.
• Cons:
  • May be loud on certain surfaces.
  • Additional accessories like a railroad crossing may need to be purchased separately.

Lego Duplo Trains

• Recommendation: "If they are 4 or under, I’d look at the Lego Duplo Trains."
• Pros:
  • Sturdy and suitable for younger kids.
  • Allows for creative play with building layouts.
• Cons:
  • Not as sturdy as some may prefer.
  • Limited in terms of complexity compared to other train sets.

Personalized Polar Express Plastic Train Set

• Recommendation: "I’d get them the big plastic Polar Express train set."
• Pros:
  • Comes with a large track for a good setup around the Christmas tree.
  • Based on the popular Polar Express movie.
• Cons:
  • Made of plastic, which may not be preferred by all.

Roco 51161 Analogue Start Set

• Recommendation: "Roco 51161 Analogue Start Set Steam locomotive class 80 with passenger train."
• Pros:
  • Specific set with a steam locomotive and passenger train.
  • Suitable for those looking for a classic train set.
• Cons:
  • May not be as widely available as other popular brands.

Piko G Scale Steam Start Set

• Recommendation: "Piko G Scale Classic BR80 Steam Passenger Start Set."
• Pros:
  • G scale size for larger, outdoor layouts.
  • Classic steam locomotive design.
• Cons:
  • Size may not be suitable for all spaces.
  • Limited availability in certain regions.

Model Train Shopping Tips

• Various online retailers like Trainworld, ModelTrainStuff, and Trainz offer a wide selection of train sets, both new and used.
• Consider the space available for the train set, as larger sizes like O gauge may require more room to run effectively.
• Look for train sets that match the recipient's preferences, whether they prefer steam, diesel, specific brands, or specific eras.

Polar Express Movie Incident:

Responsibility:

• It's not the fault of the OP for showing an age-appropriate movie like Polar Express.
• The parents should have educated their children about staying safe and not going near train tracks.
• Blame falls on the parents for not properly supervising the children.

Family Dynamics:

• The brother may be projecting fear onto the OP due to the scary situation.
• The OP should extend grace to the brother, who might be overwhelmed with guilt.

Conclusion:

• The situation was a result of parental oversight, not the movie choice, placing responsibility on the parents.
• The OP should not feel guilty for showing a harmless movie to the children.
• The brother's reaction may be driven by fear and should be met with understanding and patience.