As you know, trains are a big part of my life in many ways, and when it comes to the younger members of our family, they are too.
How does it all start? With a Brio Train Set, a wooden train set, of course.
This is where it all begins. Wooden train sets are fun and easy to set up and use and can entertain young children for hours upon end.
Forget the iPad, I say!
When choosing a wooden train for a young child, I always choose a Brio train set. If you are not familiar with the brand, you will be shortly.
It can be confusing knowing which wooden train set to by a child, which is why I will show you everything about this great little set so you can make the right decision.
Let’s steam ahead (sorry I had to).
Why Buy a Brio Trainset?
There are three simple reasons that I will touch on before diving into this review.
Aside from the fact that toys are an important part of a child’s development.
It is important you know these points.
1. Brio Trainset Safety
For me, this is something I never overlook. In fact, it is the most important for me, especially with the young nieces and nephews running around our home.
Brio has been making wooden trainsets and toys since the 1800s! They have some serious experience and an amazing track record.
Also, the magnets that connect the wooden train to the carriages is strong enough to connect but not too strong to trap your child’s fingers! (Yes, I have seen this happen with another brand)
Onto sustainability.
2. Sustainability
So many toys end up on top of the rubbish pile; I know in our street, there are always broken plastic toys thrown out.
For starters, I don’t think you will throw your Brio Train Set out, it is a product you’ll hand down or give away to close friends when you’re done with it.
All Brio Train Sets are made with FSC-certified wood for peace of mind too.
And lastly, it is about design.
3. Brio Train Set Design
Two words. Simplicity and functionality.
Every wooden train set I have bought through Brio (and I have bought a few) has lasted the test of time, been beautifully designed, and been easy to easy setup.
With such a big train-loving family, I have seen many a train set get hit around, sucked on, and thrown around the house!
The Brio Train Sets last so well, especially next to a plastic alternative!
Also, they are sturdy, well made, and have no funny little pieces that could be a safety risk for your child.
Now let’s unpack it.
As an amazon associate, I earn a small commission on purchases.
Brio Classic Figure 8 Set – Why Buy it?
This is where it all begins for a 2-year-old (give or take) wanting a wooden train set.
A classic, simple well built figure of 8 design.
You will see on the back of the box it will show the layout and all of the pieces included.
I always double-check to make sure all pieces are in there, mind you, I must of bought over 30 wooden train sets from Brio, and they have always been perfect.
Except for the time when my dog ran off with a carriage, but that is another story!
WARNING: Never let a child unbox it alone; you will see why below.
The pieces are always packed in groups, so they don’t damage, but this makes for a lot of plastic waste, and it could be a danger to young children or pets.
Brio Trains Set Setup
Another thing I love about a Brio wooden set is the ease and simplicity of setting the thing up.
There is nothing worse as a parent (or crazy Uncle, yes I am both) setting up a complex toy!
Look model trains are a different story, but when it comes to toy wooden trains, it needs to be easy.
Setup Time
This train set literally takes 5 minutes if there are no kids around, that is hahah.
I always lay out the pieces first, check that they are all there, and then get into it.
Note: There is no instruction book needed for this set; it is so simple. The little book in the pics is just a brochure of their other products.
Quality
Looking closely at the construction, you can see how well this little wooden train set has been made.
The wooden bridge is a great little feature, it is also really strong and looks awesome in bright red.
You can see below the thickness of the wood and how it is tightened well with screws.
Another nice little feature is this little train station (below) that can be moved around.
Now it is time for the star of the show.
The Train!
This great little train includes one engine and two carriages, they are held together by soft magnets.
As I said before, these are really soft magnets and pose no risk of trapping fingers and are totally safe.
Another pic below of the train in action
Ok, one final pic.
This shows everything on its side and just so you can get a good feel for this wooden train set and see how much room it takes up.
The total dimensions are 33.5 inches x 18 Inches, you can see it is not a big set by any means, and due to its simplicity, it can be packed away and then set up very quickly.
The Final Word – Should You Buy It?
This great little Brio train set is a winner if your child is 24+ months.
I personally think it is a winner; the quality, simplicity, and design make this an awesome choice for your little one.
It will keep them busy for hours!
I bet they will love it!
As an amazon associate, I earn a small commission on purchases.
P.S For older kids, check out my HO Scale AMtrak Review HERE
