Thank you for all of your advice, we are still deciding !   But nice to  hear about these Marklins, they sound like just what I was hoping to find.  Metal, bigger than Lionels, I know he wants smoke for whatever I get, and I personally want the lights and sounds too.   ANy more advice, please reply, I will keep checking here.

I just emailed a Ebay seller about a Bachmann Train set, he answered me like this ......"These are not suitable. They are rated for eight and up, but I think that's too young. They have MANY small parts and delicate details. these are mostly used by adults."...     So I guess not everyone thinks G gauge is Ok for kids.   I wonder if this is the same recommendation for O gauge trains-Lionels. 

Thank you for  your reply...Why do you think Lionels are more popular than G gauge?  OK another question, what makes this LGB brand so much more expensive than Bachmanns?   MY husband and 6 yr old have about 4 Lionel engines already, I just think instead of buying another set like that, we should get him a G gauge set, just my opionon of coarse.  HUsband prefers Metal engines, does Bachman make Metal engines, or is everythign plastic these days?    You say "Current" Bachmans are 1st rate quality.  Generally, what is metal on thier newer train sets?   If you know off hand?  I seen some on Ebay for Buy it nows at $155 , $20 shipping, I was considering one of those.  Thanks for all your help

  I do not know much about Trains, my husband has Lionels, the O gauge?  I was thinking it would be nice to get our 6 year old something else, I was thinking of this G gauge, but know nothing about them at all.   I am seeking advice on what is Best for children, and train sets.  I didn't know if these Bachmanns are metal or plastic, how durable they are, are these considered "LGB" or is that another manuacturer?  As you can see, I need to learn a little here.  Help !  All advice greatly appreciated,  Thanks