I used to catch garters and such when I was a kid in the 80s and 90s. I've always loved snakes. My parents wouldn't let me get one either. Now I have my own family, and my own snakes. My kids aren't afraid of them as they look T them as their pets.

Bottom line is wait until you have the proper means to own such a pet, and use your moms fear to motivate you to make sure your kids aren't afraid.

We we all know a fear of snakes is irrational, but it is still a persons fear. You have to respect that. All you can do is positively influence the next generation.