Let me put it this way...I started working in exotics at the age of 11-12 years...first duty at the store: Clean breeder boa cage...even the 9ft female went around my neck when I pulled her to clean the cage. Even an adult ball python is going to find it rather difficult to take down a 5 year old...a big breeder female and a small toddler...maybe but I definitely wouldn't put money on it. I have found my BP to be most comfortable when coiled around my neck and it should not be an issue for any supervised child over 8 years of age. If he does get a bit tight, then simply unravel him tail first...sometimes they tighten a bit for security and/or anxiety from possibility of falling. Hope that helps.