a Few Quick Questions from a first time owner

Question:
Hello. My name is Matt and I was just curious about a few things regarding my new mice. I just picked them up today and have been reading almost non-stop since I got home. I've read and re-read most of the articles on this site *assuming the articles about rats are somewhat related to mice* but I still have a few questions I would like answered. First, What do my mice absolutely need to be happy/healthy? They have a cage, although one I consider somewhat small for the two of them, a wheel, their water bottle, food bowl, little hiding places, and bedding *the Kaytee kind that looks like attic insulation* But what else do they need or could use to stay happy and healthy? I was thinking some chew sticks/toys and some of the add-on tubes/extra area to explore and play in. But I'm sure I'm missing something, probably obvious. My other questions were in regards to the socializing. How do I earn their trust? Is it like a dog? Give it time? Coax it with food? I tried the food but could not get them to eat it (I figure getting thrown into a box (not literally), stuck in a noisy car for 30 mins, and getting harassed by a stupid looking human pretty much made their day so I'm not completely worried about that) But I tried holding one of them while I was rearranging the cage, and the thing crapped/peed all over me. I can honestly say that I wasn't surprised, but I'm not going to hold/play with them if that is going to happen every time. Will this stop with the time/trust thing? The things are cute as all get out, so I'd hate to just leave them in their cage forever! How worried should i be about younger children holding/playing with them? Not worried about the mice so much as someone getting bitten... I don't think it will be a problem as long as they aren't squeezing/pulling/poking, but I would just like a little assurance. One last question, potty training? good investment buying one of those attachable outhouses?
Answer:
I haven't had mice in about a million years, but it sounds as though you've done your homework quite well. I think you might want to get some chew sticks - their front teeth can get pretty long. As far as earning their trust, it takes time and patience. The reason for the pee/poop is that mousie was literally scared shitless! They probably haven't been handled a lot, which is unfortunate. Take your time, pet them when you put food in their cage, and initially wait to see if they will come to you for a treat (ie cheese). Once they get used to being petted, pick them up - in their cage - pet once or twice and then put them down. Repeat a number of times a day and they will become good buddies. Buy an attachable outhouse and plenty of bedding. Gotta change that cage often or it will smell to high heaven. Have fun.
Answer:
OK, will do the pick up and pet inside the cage a few times a day to see if I get any progress. They've become a lot more active it seems, gave them a few sheets of toilet paper and they immediately took them into their house and began redecorating. Noisy little farts when they do it too. But still, no squeaking. I think I made the right choice choosing mice over a dog or other high maintenance pet, I just can't wait until I can hold them.