Is a corn snake good for little kids?

Snakes typically make great pets for kids, compared to other reptiles they're inexpensive and they're low maintainence. Although a neglectful situation should always be avoided Snakes tolerate minor neglect such as missed feedings better than other pets. A Ball has a very calm nature, but for a first time snake owner I would recommend a Corn Snake for numerous reasons. Ball Pythons adult size is roughly 5 ft, however they have proven to be girthy snakes and will require a slightly larger enclosure than a Corn, which as an adult can be maintained in a standard 20 gallon LONG terrarium. Ball Pythons, some times require up to two weeks to acclimate and during this time need to be left completely alone, no handling, feeding or constant observing. My personal Python only took about 5 days before she was venturing out searching for food, where as my corn was exploring minutes after being put away in his new home. As far as feeding, once acclimated Balls eat consistently but if the acclimation never occurs the snake never eats. Corn Snakes although secretive themselves tend to be a little more active, but every snake is different my ball dances around her tank sometimes and sometimes its days before I see the Corn. So in general Ball Pythons are great first time pets but they require a little more patience and when full grown a larger enclosure than Corn snakes. The Python itself is usually pricier, a basic Python usually runs here about $50.00 but some morphs in the specialty shop reach up to $800.00 and even rarer varieties of the Ball Python can cost up to Five-Thousand Dollars. Where as Corns tend to display a wider variety of colors and more reasonable prices. The average ball Python lifespan is 20-25 years, with some specimens living well into the 50's. Corn Snakes can be expected to live around 15 years and sometimes early twenties. So base your decision on the kid, a snake is a long-term companion and they recognize different people but establishing the "Pet-to-Owner" bond won't happen. Ball Python's require a little more investment and patience and if the kid can handle that fine. If you think a basic Corn being hardy and more easily maintained then go with the Corn. Before purchasing any pet though, understand that it is a long term commitment and if the kid loses interest there should be a responsible adult to step in and care for the Snake. I have to stress locking or sliding screen lids to prevent escaping, you'll need locks designed to prevent it, a full grown snake can push heavy books off the top of the tank with ease and losing a snake is heartbreaking. Most importantly, before purchasing any snake, request to see it eat. A good dealer with nothing to hide will not deny this request, many people cut corners with snakes and its disasterous. Do not be surprised if the guarantee on the snake of whatever kind if as little as 3 days. Confirming the snake eats will save you from being stuck with a specimen that at all costs wont eat (it does happen), I got all 4 of my snakes from the same shop and still would request a feeding demo. A full belly makes acclimation easier for the snake, and because they should'nt be handled for 24-48 hours after eating, it makes a nice excuse to use during acclimation for a very excited kid. Good Luck, Snakes make great pets but not for everyone, they're very unique and educating. However, I ask that you please do a little reading, ask plenty of questions, and consider alternatives if you feel you can't meet the minimal but appropiate needs of the snake.