This is drawn from a document I wrote as part of our herp society's volunteer orientation. It contains information useful for people who have never handled reptiles before as well as instructions useful when teaching volunteers how to hold reptiles and offer information to the public when doing hands-on education.
Snakes Pick up gently.
When holding out for people to touch, keep control of the snake's head - cup one hand under it so that you can gently direct it away from the person if they appear nervous. Drape the snake's midsection down the back somewhat from the person's shoulder, with the tail and the head ends down in front of either shoulder. Let them know which side the head is on. If need be, control the head for them. Watch for heavy breathing on the part of the snake.