Hi there, and welcome to the forums!

I agree that Ball Pythons are great pets. My advice to you would be to carefully read the Ball Python Care Sheet here on this site, and to read through the various posts featuring questions from other members. Often this can be very educational, and it might help you learn from other peoples mistakes, concerns and questions.

I would also suggest you have your son sit down and carefully read about Ball Pythons, either by reviewing the care sheet here on this site or by buying one of the excellent books available on the species.

Every animal has its own little personality. It has been said that babies tend to be skittish and snappy, but mine is very calm and has never bitten or even made an aggressive move towards anybody. He is also alert and interactive when being handled. The longer you have them, the better you can 'read' them, just like any pet. I also am of the opinion that animals, snakes included, do have emotions - although I reserve judgment as to the full depth of their emotional scale. I don't claim it to be on the same level as a human (or even recognizable by human standards) but I won't rule out the possibility it exists on some level. As you might guess, this is a case of debate within the herp community.

Keep in mind that Ball Pythons are nocturnal and won't be active during the day. In the daytime they curl up in their little hides and only come out at night. If you are looking for a snake that is more active during the day, you may like to look at corn snakes. There is a good care sheet about them on this site too.

As with any animal you plan to take into your home as a pet, it is vital that you fully understand its care needs and be able to provide for them. In addition to the enclosure setup (tank/bin, heating pad, thermostat to regulate the temp of the heating pad, light/ceramic heat emitter, substrate (ground covering), hides, water bowl, food, etc.), there is also the possibility of future vet visits and bills. Make sure your son understands the financial costs and is willing to commit to the responsibility of helping pay for the expenses.

As for gender; I bought a male, because they grow 3-3.5', whereas females grow 3.5-4' (sometimes larger).

I hope this helps. Please have your son visit this site to look around too! Ball Pythons can live from 20-30 years in captivity, so it is entirely possible that the BP he gets will be around to play with his own children one day. It is important he learns all he can about them! They do make wonderful pets and are quite simple to care for, once you understand how. Good luck!