Most people fear that Model train
as a hobby is at its last breath. So they are fervent to involve kids into the
hobby. However, if attendance in the World’s Greatest Hobby shows was the
measure of how a hobby is active, then Model railroading is never near its
end. All around the world, a new breed
of passionate model railroaders are emerging.
My recent trip to Model Railroading Days at the Railroad
Museum of Pennsylvania provided one of the best examples of getting kids
involved that I've seen in a long time however. The Somerset County, New Jersey
4-H club has developed within it a model railroading club. This is not your
typical club. During the 5-year program, kids work with their parents and with
volunteers to build their own O-Gauge module. Beginning with the general module
construction (to national standards allowing interchange with other groups) to
scenery and even on up to operations, the kids learn the art and fun of model
railroading.
All together, more than 40 modules made up one of the
largest layouts on display at the event. Two things struck me about the layout
and the group. First, each section was unique and matched the personality of
the builder. Some were based on real scenes while others were complete fancy
like this "Sponge Bob" module. Regardless, the creativity was
refreshing. Who would have thought of using an aquarium background on a
model railroad? Needless to say, this layout was a huge hit with visitors of
all ages.
The other element of the club that deserves recognition is
the way everybody worked together. I think the group set a speed record for teardown.
The kids worked hard and showed real enthusiasm for the project the entire
weekend. Equally as important, the adults were too. This was not a case of
"We want a train club so let's let the kids play too." The parents
and chaperones made sure that the kids did the playing, the work, and the
learning. It was their layout.
I'll be doing a larger write-up on the group in the near
future. If you would like to get involved with a project like this, contact the
4-H in your county and see if they have a program. If not, they'll probably be
happy to let you get involved and start one!
No comments:
Post a Comment