Toy Trains and Big Trains [VHS]

Amazon.com Video maker Tom McComas knows where to find the most elaborate model train setups around. There are coal mine loading docks, Mount Rushmore, and a high-rise factory fire complete with pumpers and hooks and ladders. This half-hour locomotive lovefest frequently cuts back and forth between real and model trains, allowing younger children a fun game of “toy train or real train?” while older children who know their stuff will most certainly recognize the trains. An obvious winner with miniature train enthusiasts, this is also a good starter tape if you’re looking to get your child on board with your hobby. Plenty of animals make appearances to keep the action going and provide child-friendly puns. (“What’s a duck’s favorite snack? Cheese and quackers!”) And if that’s not enough, the soundtrack features rousing instrumentals and kids singing favorites such as “She’ll Be Coming ‘Round the Mountain” and, of course, “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad.” –Kimberly Heinrichs