Changing trains in Milano

Milano Centrale is large but the platform is easy to suss out. Since it is an "end" station, the trains all pull up to the front and stop. They tracks are lined up parallel, numbered from left to right as you face the trains ( your back to the station lobby). To go from one to another, you walk to the front of the train you just got off of, then turn left or right to cross over ( at the same level) through thelobbynarea to your next train. Check the board to confirm the track number for your next train just in case it has changed. Fifteen minutes is enough time as long as your inbound train is not late. The ES trains like your are quite reliable in that respect.

Peter, As Lola mentioned, changing trains at Milano Centrale is usually quite easy, as it's a simple matter of walking from one platform to another, with no trips through a sottopassagio (tunnel). However, it's a busy and somewhat chaotic station, so you'll have to sheperd your group through the crowds. Watch your wallet and luggage while there! You may be approached by individuals with a "hard luck story" asking for a "donation". You'll have to decide how you'll respond to them. One other point to mention is that the washrooms at Milano Centrale are "pay-per-use". With only 15 minutes, you may not have time for that anyway as the main facilities are one floor down from track level. When you arrive at Milano Centrale, disembark and walk to the end of the platform. Check the electronic board, looking for the train number of your next train, as that will tell you what platform it will be departing from. There's no way to predict which platform you'll be using, as especially in Italy these are sometimes changed. I've checked the paper "Partenza" charts numerous times to determine the platform number, only to find that it's been changed. The electronic board will be your best indication. Happy travels!

Do not talk to anyone who approaches you, and do not use the restrooms in the station. Just go from one train to the other.

I agree with the others, that 15 minutes is plenty of time. You disembark, find the departures board which will show your next train's platform, and go directly to that platform. Since it's all on one level and there's no underground passage to get up and down from, changing in Milan can actually be easier than in some smaller stations. As a corollary to what was posted about the bathrooms, your trains will have bathrooms on them, and they're free! Be sure your kids (and, of course, you) use these on the first train well before you arrive in Milan, so you won't even have to face the issue until you're on your next train.

Thanks everyone, as this is my first time with this sort of time rush in this sort of choas I will take it as it comes. The kids and I will be ready to jump ship (train) as soon as we arrive with a nominated forward scout for the electronic boards. All you help is appreciated
Peter