What to Expect From Your Child's Zodiac Sign
The time of year you're born has been proven to have some influence on your health later in life. So far, 55 conditions were found to have a correlation with birth month, including common disorders like ADHD and asthma. Whether or not our personalities are influenced by birth month, the position of the stars, or anything else beyond good old genetics is up for debate.
Nevertheless, there's a lot we still don't know about the universe, and astrology has been around for thousands of years. Maybe there's something to it! According to the principles of astrology, here's what themes parents of every zodiac sign tend to notice.
Aries
Their personality: Aries babies are fire signs, and it shows. Usually, they're active, ambitious, and fiercely competitive. Little rams are curious, spontaneous and often fearless. They tend to be early walkers and talkers, simply because they get bored easily and prefer to test their limits than watch siblings play from the sidelines.
Pros: Determined, eager to learn, confidant
Cons: Stubborn, impulsive, chaotic
Aries parenting tips: Baby proof early, because Aries babies tend to leap from crawling to climbing with haste. As they grow, keep them engaged and challenged with games and outdoor play. Trampoline parks and mommy-and-me classes focused on gross motor skill development is great to help them channel all that Aries energy. When they're older, getting them involved in a team sport is a good move. It'll satisfy their craving for competition and teach them how to be a good loser at the same time.
They're also likely to have big, sometimes overwhelming feelings, so give them a calm space of their own to work through them in a constructive way. When they're acting out, try giving them a fun challenge to redirect their focus. Works like a charm.
Taurus
Their personality: Tauruses have a reputation for being bull-headed, but it may be because they feel most secure when their world is predictable and logical. When they feel comfortable, they're usually calm, even-tempered and easygoing. They tend to be considerate of siblings and friends, and value fairness and honesty.
Pros: Peaceful, organized, good at following rules
Cons: Stubborn, explosive when they lose their cool
Taurus parenting tips: When Taurus kids have meltdowns, it's not a pretty sight. It usually takes a lot to push them over the edge, however, and it's worth noting what a Taurus trigger looks like. Since they thrive off of stability and routine, change is difficult for them to cope with. When faced with a spontaneous trip the the store or a canceled playdate, they're likely to throw a fit.
Trying to force a Taurus to do something is a losing battle. You might win in the short term, but forcing a bull to do something may result in losing their trust. Instead, use logic to get through to them, and give them structure at home to keep them feeling grounded. Sticker charts are a big hit. Do your best to keep rules and consequences consistent, and always do what you say you're going to do, or they'll dig their heels in even more in the future.
Gemini
Their personality: Intelligent and tech-savvy, Geminis are always eager to explore new mental challenges. Even as babies, they're more likely than other signs to be drawn towards books, iPads, and anything else with pages to buttons to press, or puzzles to untangle. They're energetic chatterboxes practically from birth. You can pick out the Gemini at playgroup by looking for the one who's never still, and always talking.
Pros: Social, outgoing, energetic
Cons: Unpredictable, easily bored, indecisive
Gemini parenting tips: Busy Gemini babies need social interaction to thrive, both from parents and other kids their own age. They tend to be clingy in the early days, but once they feel secure, they eagerly branch out to introduce themselves to playmates via babbling and play. As they get older, make sure they have plenty of opportunities to put themselves out there and make friends. They tend to do so easily, and are usually well-liked among their peers.
The dualistic nature of the twins, however, gives Geminis a layered personality that's surprisingly complex. Parents are never sure which side of their child they're going to get — the gregarious life of the party or the explosively frustrated fireball. They quickly tire of time alone, so make sure their social needs are met first. Since they can be indecisive, narrow down their choices to reduce frustration. When they do get frustrated, give them a journal to write down their feelings in. They're naturals at communication, so being able to verbalize what's wrong is excellent practice.
Cancer
Their personality: Cancer, a water sign ruled by the moon, inspires babies that love to be held and thrive with lots of attention and quality time. They can be moody and tearful, but baby crabs will quickly calm down once they've had some long hugs to reassure them. They tend to be very attached to their primary caregiver, so daycare can be rough at first. Once they get used to it, however, they tend to be naturally empathetic and kind with their peers.
Pros: Affectionate, cuddly, protective
Cons: Fussy, clingy
Cancer parenting tips: Although Cancers can be crabby now and again, at their core, little crabs are sensitive and eager to please. They're easily hurt by harsh criticism, so parent with an extra gentle hand. Most Cancer babies do best with redirection and positive feedback. Being super strict isn't necessary, and may even damage their self-esteem over time.
As natural caretakers, Cancers can be very sweet, and love imagination play. Allowing them to help care for younger siblings, do housework, or engage in play with dolls and stuffed animals is a good way to win over a Cancer. Since they're so affectionate, set aside special time to spend just the two of you to help them feel connected and cared for.
Leo
Their personality: Little Leos are larger than life from day one. They're ever enthusiastic, fearless, and avid adventurers. They tend to be melodramatic, but their temper is balanced out by a smiley, outgoing personality that's easy to like. They're also born leaders, so it's not unusual for them to direct play at school. Wherever they are, they usually find a way to be the center of attention.
Pros: Assertive, confident, funny
Cons: Willful, attention-seeking, demanding
Leo parenting tips: Leos are tough, but don't be fooled. They might act like they don't need you, but inside, their sweet souls are sensitive to criticism and need plenty of nurturing. They respond well to praise, and will eagerly take on new challenges in hopes of impressing authority figures.
To minimize drama, give them opportunities to channel their energy and get the attention they need. Activities involving performance, like music or dance, are good options. Their flair for drama is also an asset in theater. Whatever you do, avoid scolding them in public, which will put a major dent in their confidence. Aim to give them plenty of opportunities to be in the spotlight and exert their natural leadership tendencies, and you'll see your little Leo really shine.
Virgo
Their personality: Virgo babies love nothing more than to help. They're usually the first to join mom or dad in the kitchen, and cleaning up toys is rarely a battle. Virgos like to keep their things neat and tidy, but their fastidious nature can also lead to bossiness, know-it-all behavior, and whining when things don't go according to plan.
Pros: Helpful, rational, organized
Cons: Picky, hesitant, shy
Virgo parenting tips: Virgos are bright, complex and emotional. They're prone to feeling insecure, so work on developing strong self-esteem from toddlerhood. Offer frequent reassurance and praise, and take note of their special skills and talents. Virgos are highly observant and love arts and crafts, memory games, and games of hide and seek that challenge their memory and knack for noticing things that most people overlook.
While little Virgos love structure and organization, they have a hidden talent for find loopholes in the rules. Be sure to set firm, clear rules so they know what to expect. They can also be bossy, so help them learn to listen and play well with others. That way, they'll evolve into a leader, not a dictator.
Libra
Their personality: There's so much to love about the autumnal Libra baby. They're funny, bubbly, and get along with practically everyone. Their balanced nature helps them to see both sides of conflicts, and they prefer to resolve things peacefully than to leave the playground with unfinished business. They're also generous to an extreme, and get so immersed in playtime that they'll happily play for hours once they find a friend that matches their energy.
Pros: Social, peacekeeping, generous
Cons: Indecisive, shy
Libra parenting tips: Libras have a hard time making decisions because they insist on weighing all the options carefully before choosing. Give them extra time to decide so that they're confident about their decision when they finally make one.
Libras are next-level friends, but their people-pleasing tendencies can go too far if left unchecked. Keep an eye on them to make sure they know the line between being generous and kind and getting taken advantage of. Also, Libras often get so immersed in socializing that they lose track of time, feeling disappointed when it's suddenly time to head home. Make sure to give them extra warnings when playtime is almost over to reduce the likelihood of a dramatic meltdown.
Scorpio
Their personality: The passionate Scorpio sign is intense and strong-willed. They love adventure and are independent to a fault. They may not be the snuggliest, but their tenacity and self-driven nature often lands them in leadership roles later on.
Pros: Loyal, determined, perceptive
Cons: Dramatic, extreme, standoffish
Scorpio parenting tips: Scorpios have the tenacity to achieve great things, but their stubbornness can get the best of them. Scorpios come with a strong ego, and they absolutely hate being wrong. For this reason, it's important to encourage them to get outside their comfort zone and develop a growth mindset from the get go. Otherwise, they'll be unwilling to try things they're not already sure they can do.
They tend to be very private, so make a point of establishing trust between the two of you. That way, they'll know you're a safe space to share their feelings and begrudgingly ask for help when they need it.
Sagittarius
Their personality: Sagittarius is a fire sign ruled by Jupiter. The planet of abundance inspires a child who wants boundless freedom and is hard to satisfy. Whatever they have, they want more. They have so, so much energy, so plan on chasing after your little cherub as soon as they get mobile. We've never met a Sagittarius that didn't jump from crawling to sprinting overnight, but their ambition and drive to learn serves them well.
Pros: Eager to learn, curious, clever
Cons: Demanding, high-energy
Sagittarius parenting tips: Sagittarius kids are so likable that it's hard to say no to them. Be consistent anyway, because having defined structure and boundaries is good for them in the long run. They love to push boundaries, so expect rules to be tested non-stop. Parenting a Sag is a workout, so keep a sense of humor along the way. Being silly is a great way to snap a grump Sagittarius out of a mood, too.
Capricorn
Their personality: Capricorns are not fans of being told what to do, because they love setting the rules themselves. They're serious kids, but their hardworking nature is ideal for success in sports, academic competitions, and basically any profession that requires drive and dedication.
Pros: Determined, rule-following, responsible
Cons: Bossy, perfectionistic
Capricorn parenting tips: Capricorns like to be taken seriously, so give them opportunities to lead whenever you can. They relish deep conversations and will gladly open up about their feelings if given the chance. They also like to be given jobs to do. Instead of feeling bored, chores make them feel important. Just take care to remind them it's okay to make mistakes and look silly sometimes, or they might end up taking themselves too seriously.
While they may act like mini adults, don't forget they still need you. Without rules, they'll make their own. With strong discipline, they'll take you seriously and respect boundaries more than most.
Aquarius
Their personality: The airy Aquarius sign is intellectual, thoughtful, and quick to test parents with non-stop questions. Their lovable free spirits can be rebellious and challenging to work with, but good parenting will be rewarded with the development of an honest, fairness-seeking, equity-driven change maker. Our world could use more of those, so no slacking off!
Pros: Clever, active, engaging
Cons: Reactive, distracted, unpredictable
Aquarius parenting tips: Aquarius babies like to do everything themselves. It's exhausting and makes literally everything take longer, but letting them perform appropriate tasks on their own is empowering in the long run. They love to question rules, so be patient and consistent with discipline, and provide clear, rational explanations.
Their constant questioning might feel disrespectful, but their independent thinking will be an asset later in life. They often have natural aptitude in math and science, so consider getting them involved in STEM activities when they're old enough.
Pisces
Their personality: Pisces babies are the daydreamers of the zodiac. They have big ideas and even bigger feelings, but their intuitive, imaginative qualities make them instinctively artistic. They'd prefer to come up with the ideas and leave the business side of things to someone else.
Pros: Creative, empathetic, passionate
Cons: Sensitive, idealistic
Pisces parenting tips: A little fish's best quality can also be their hardest to deal with as a parent: That huge imagination of theirs. They're remarkably inventive and come up with incredible stories, but because they're so averse to conflict, they tend to spin elaborate fibs instead of being honest. Don't take it too seriously, however, because their alternate version of reality can seem very real to them, even if it comes off as willful dishonesty.
Whenever they tell the truth, praise them heavily to limit fibs in the future. They usually don't respond well to isolation, so consider using reward charts and other methods of positive feedback rather than time outs.