Suggestions on a first layout

It certainly should!

The great thing about it is - you can change it!  I don't think it will stay the same for long.  Birthdays (a pair of switches) and other special occasions will come and these things have a way of expanding.  Rearrange it and see what happens. 

Have fun with it.  The most important thing to remember is to not get too complicated or stuck on the details.  You want to have the layout available to him and get the maximum play value out of it.

Enjoy!!!

George

Kids always enjoy tunnels. I think the figure 8 was a good move, ovals get boring pretty fast. I don't know how much space and track you have, but if it were me, I'd build a box to raise his figure 8 and have part of your oval pass underneath it.

I think what you have is perfect for a 5 year old. You've kept it simple and that's the key at this point. You'll be able to tell when your boy needs/wants something more.

Hey I like that idea.  I could always add that when I get the time, it would add a new, pardon the pun, layer.  Thanks!

Thanks. I added a 2nd level to my Christmas layout this year. It doesn't have track, just buildings, but it's made a world of difference. If I were going to use this same layout next year, I'd add a "real" 2nd level with another train. My 2nd level is a simply 1x3 box covered with plywood and raised high enough for the train to clear underneath. It's covered with white cloth and has cutouts for the tunnel entrance/exit.

Well I for one,am totally thrilled that you managed to get a 5 year old interested in trains!You cant go wrong from here on out.Have fun.Nick