Help me figure out giving tree request

[4speedy]

DS picked a tag off his school tree that says "trains" with no other info. The office could provide no other info about the child who made the request. I have no idea if I should buy Thomas trains for a 3 year old or grown up trains for an 8 year old. I also don't want to buy a toy that won't be any fun unless the receiving child buys a lot of add-on, which seems to be typical if starter train sets.

Can anyone suggest a train toy that will appeal to a large age span?

[hisno1girl]

If you're son is in elementary school, pick something in that age range. I think the tags are usually for kids in the similar age groups.

[jenna]

www.amazon.com/Brio-B33030-Steam-Engine-Set/dp/B00AYP37M4

with a pack of batteries.

www.amazon.com/Power-City-Trains-Auto-Loader/dp/B0090VT1DC

www.amazon.com/Power-City-Trains-Starter-Set/dp/B00DF0XIJM

Brio makes great trains.  We have a lot of Thomas the train, Brio, and Chuggington at our house, but my son is 5. 

The Power City trains seem to get decent reviews.

[cabbagecabbage]

The preschooler I babysit just got this and loved it but it's more detailed and realistic, so good for a big kid too.

www.google.com/shopping/product/16771858603225876306?lsf=seller:1324698,store:7715105666540155913&prds=oid:12715962959716989016&q=planes+movie+train&hl=en&ei=YDlXVrHFH4rNeuHKr4AE