New analysis from Thomas & Friends finds playing with toy trains can enhance development, making train play a beneficial play pattern for all ages.

Mattel has released the findings of a comprehensive review conducted with the Thomas & Friends brand, highlighting the possible developmental benefits of train play for children. The study was commissioned by the brand and carried out by researcher Dr Salim Hashmi from King’s College London. His research findings have been compiled into a new white paper, which highlights the positive impact that playing with toy trains can have on child development.

Dr Hashmi conducted an extensive review of all relevant published scientific research, which encompassed over 1,600 scientific research papers on the subject of playing with toy trains.  After careful analysis, he identified several key benefits that children can derive from this type of play.

One of the primary benefits Dr Hashmi identified is better thinking and social skills. This form of play provides valuable opportunities for children to learn and practice collaboration, cooperation and social understanding while interacting with others. Moreover, playing with toy trains allows children to develop and refine essential thinking skills, contributing to their problem-solving abilities.

Dr Hashmi, a Lecturer in Education at King’s, commented: “The research findings emphasise that playing with toy trains offers children an opportunity for rich learning experiences. Constructing tracks, arranging train cars, envisioning scenarios and enacting them during train play can stimulate cognitive development and enhance critical thinking, spatial analysis and decision-making skills. Collaborative play with toy trains could help encourage teamwork, negotiation and collaboration, as children share resources, ideas and play together.”

Dr Hashmi added: “Overall, train play is an excellent way for children to develop key skills.”

Kelly Philp, senior director, Marketing, said: “The Thomas & Friends brand recognises the transformative power imaginative playtime has on our little ones. As children embark on adventures with their toy trains, they not only engage in creativity but also develop essential life skills.”