Trainkids By Atlas

Atlas TrainKids takes some of the fun of an HO-sized passenger train and removes much of the setup that can make conventional model railroading intimidating for a first-time operator. The trains are battery powered, operation is controlled remotely, and TrainKids sets provide their own track system.

That makes TrainKids particularly well suited to families, younger train fans, and beginners who want to get a train moving without starting with transformers, track wiring, DCC, or the other electrical decisions found elsewhere in the hobby.

Atlas has offered TrainKids as more than a single train set, too. The range has included passenger equipment, additional track, switches, expansion sets, add-on cars, and layout packages, giving a starter railroad room to grow.

A TrainKids railroad doesn't have to stay in the configuration that came in the box. Atlas has produced additional TrainKids track and dedicated layout packages for building circles, ovals, figure eights, sidings, double ovals, and more involved track plans.

TrainKids accessories have also included left- and right-hand switches, track expansion sets, additional passenger equipment, and locomotive/car add-ons. That expandability is one of the more useful features for a child or beginner who enjoys the original set and wants to do more with it.

Some TrainKids products were also released with glow-in-the-dark track and matching expansion pieces, adding another distinctive option to the system.

TrainKids equipment is associated with Atlas's HO range, but shoppers should understand the difference between TrainKids and a conventional electrically powered HO model train before choosing between them.

TrainKids locomotives use battery power rather than drawing their operating power from the rails. Atlas has stated that its battery-powered TrainKids equipment can run on an HO-gauge layout, but the TrainKids system is designed around simpler battery and remote-control operation.

For someone ready for conventional powered HO locomotives, rolling stock, track systems, DCC, and a more traditional model railroad, the broader Atlas HO Scale selection is the better next stop.

TrainKids inventory isn't limited to whatever happens to be in the latest Atlas catalog. Trainz buys and sells model trains from previously owned collections, which means the selection can also turn up older TrainKids sets, extra cars, track pieces, expansion items, and other harder-to-find releases when available.

That changing inventory can be especially useful after the original set is already at home. A missing track piece, another passenger car, an expansion pack, or an older TrainKids accessory may be more useful than purchasing another complete set.

Because availability changes, check the individual Trainz listing for condition, included track and accessories, packaging, and exactly what comes with a particular TrainKids item.

Is Atlas TrainKids HO Scale?

TrainKids is part of Atlas's HO train-set range and uses HO-gauge equipment and track dimensions.

Are Atlas TrainKids trains battery powered?

Yes. Atlas TrainKids sets use battery-powered operation rather than relying on track power.

Can a TrainKids railroad be expanded?

Yes. Atlas has produced TrainKids expansion track, switches, add-on equipment, and complete layout packages.

Does TrainKids have glow-in-the-dark track?

Yes. Atlas has offered a TrainKids Glow in the Dark series with train sets, track, switches, and expansion products.

Can Atlas TrainKids trains run on regular HO track?

Atlas has stated that its battery-powered TrainKids train can operate on an HO-gauge layout. Compatibility should still be checked for the specific equipment and layout.

Is TrainKids a good first train for a beginner?

It can be a particularly approachable option because battery power and remote operation eliminate the need to begin with conventional track wiring or DCC.

Can I find older Atlas TrainKids items at Trainz?

Yes, when available. Trainz's changing inventory may include pre-owned, older, discontinued, and hard-to-find TrainKids sets and accessories.