Thomas and Friends Load and Sort Recycling Center / Echo Tunnel /Sodor Fire Sta
(RC2/Learning Curve $49.99 Score:) Three pieces of cargo slide through the Recycling Center ($49.99 5) and magically drop down the can, paper, or glass chutes and onto a waiting truck. Clever use of technology with a built-in message! Also great fun, Echo Tunnel ($49.99 5). Our tester loved speaking into the tunnel and hearing his own words echo back! There are also a train whistle and rackety track sounds that echo as trains run through the small tunnel that fits into any track set-up. One parent noted: “The ability to record one’s voice is so much fun for this age.” Also wonderful, Sights & Sounds Deluxe Fire Station ($69.99 5). An alarm activates lights and sounds of the fire crew with their fire truck and fire train. Switches above the doorways turn on lights and sounds, and open the double doors. 3 & up. (800) 704-8697.

Age: Preschool,Early School Years. Award Year: 2007.

Brio Double Suspension Bridge
(KNEX $25 Score:) This is the longest bridge in the line—three and a half feet long! Can also be used side by side for two-way traffic. Our tester liked the Stop & Go Station ($16.50 ); with a simple push button the train is locked into the station and then released to go. (800) 822-5639.

Age: Preschool,Early School Years. Award Year: 2007.

Toby's Windmill
(Learning Curve International $39.95 Score:) New for the Thomas & Friends train buff, a working windmill with a lever that kids push to make the propeller twirl and a top loader that releases barrels of flour from the “mill” onto waiting trains. Comes with barrels and train car carrier for the flour. 3 & up.

Age: Preschool,Early School Years. Award Year: 2007.

Suddery Swing Bridge
(Learning Curve International $35.95 Score:) Little engineers are in for action as the Suddery Bridge rotates allowing trains underneath to pass through on their travels North and South! Comes with two ascending tracks. Ideal for dramatic play as kids build their track system. 3 & up.

Age: Preschool,Early School Years. Award Year: 2007.

Thomas the Tank Engine Bridge & Crane Figure 8 Train Set
(Learning Curve International $49.99 Score:) With a wonderful lift and lower “Sling Bridge” and a building with a “Swivel Crane” with a magnet for lifting cargo off of passing trains, this figure 8 set is full of action for beginners. Comes with a railroad crossing sign, tree, a Sir Tophim Hatt figure, 20 pieces of track, a Thomas the Tank Engine and freight car with magnetized container.

Age: Preschool. Award Year: 2007.