Rat G.Pig Hamster/Gerbil?

[LibbyP]

Okay here are the questions, my daughter will be turning 5 in June, she has started taking an huge interest in rodents(family friends own several different types and she has no fear unlike her mom . I will be honest I am not really thrilled on the idea, but she is very respectful and caring. Hubby is trying to push her towards a Hamster/Gerbil so it can have those cool tunnels etc... I am okay with a G.Pig(actually like them~alot) but no she wants a rat or a skinny rat. How hard are they to handle, what kind of up-keep do they require etc... I am ing that this will pass. I am not stupid to go out and get her one just because she wants one, I'd like to wait till she's 8 maybe 9 or 22 what are your thoughts and what would you let her get and at what age do you think she could handle this type of pet?