Life
You know how people blame a full moon for nonsensical situations? Parenting isn't too different. I can't tell you how many times I've stood, speechless and scratching my head, trying to figure out why my son felt compelled to smear guacamole on our freshly-cleaned walls. The interesting part, though, is that my partner and I approach these scenarios in entirely different ways. Could the cosmos be the reason why we react certain ways? Well, if the stars have anything to do with it, you might consider the best parenting styles to follow based on your astrological sign and see if that helps you make some sense out of the chaos that comes with the child-rearing territory.
Though some might use the classic "nature versus nurture" argument to debate why individuals seem hardwired to think, do, or say certain things, it could be just as plausible that the time of year you were born had some influence over your personality as well. Think about it. We all know a Scorpio that's just a little too intense or a Taurus who lives up to the bull-headed stereotype; so why would parenthood be much different? If you're curious as to why parenting style would fit you best based on your astrological sign, then check these out.
Aries (March 21 to April 19)
Pretty much everyone knows that the ram is the mascot for the first sign of the zodiac. According to the experts at Astrology, Aries and the ram have a lot in common being a fire sign with an equally fiery temperament. As a parent, if you notice that you tend to get easily irritated when your kids make a mess, you might consider Mindful Parenting—a trend popularized by Dr. Karen Race, a family psychologist, who founded Mindful Life. According to The Huffington Post, Mindful Parenting is primarily about pressing pause before reacting, which could come in handy for a fiery Aries.
Taurus (April 20 to May 20)
Similar to Aries and the ram, Taurus is just like its mascot, being bull-headed and stubborn, according to What's Your Sign. Instead of looking at things as power-struggles or battles, channel your strong will into raising independent children, like with Free-Range Parenting. According to the official site of the parenting style, it's all about giving your child the tools to succeed on their own.
Gemini (May 21 to June 20)
According to Astrology Zodiac Signs, the Gemini is known for their dual nature, able to be fun one minute and serious the next. Then the Danish Way of Parenting might be just for you. According to the official site, the Danish Way of Parenting focusses on creating a balance between play time and understanding the importance of family time. A perfect solution for a Gemini.
Cancer (June 21 to July 22)
Despite being labeled as "crabby," Astrology noted that at the heart of both the crustacean and Cancer is the way they fiercely defend their home. You can take that strong sense of loyalty and explore what it means to be a Tiger Parent—a term popularized by Amy Chua who wrote The Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother. Can you think of a more protective animal than a tiger for her cub?
Leo (July 23 to Aug. 22)
Similar to the fierce tiger, the lionhearted Leos are leaders with a passionate personality and loyalty to their kin, according to Astrology Zodiac Signs. You might already identify as a Snow Plough Parent, who push any potential obstacles out of their child's way, as The Huffington Post noted. Although there's nothing wrong with wanting the best for your kids in life, you may want to keep your ferocity in check.
Virgo (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22)
If there is one down side to Virgo, it could be their critical and analytical nature, as Astrology noted. Chances are, your penchant for perfection has you looking a bit like a Helicopter Parent. Where being a Helicopter Parent is more authoritarian, strict, and rigid, the Authoritative Parenting approach is more about guidelines, self-regulation, and respect, as Psychology Today noted. It's a win-win since it will be less stressful for you and the whole family.
Libra (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22)
When you think of the seventh sign of the zodiac, you probably picture a set of scales, which is fitting since Libra is all about creating balance and harmony in the home, according to What's Your Sign. The family diplomat, peacemaker, and referee, Attachment Parenting could be just the fit for you. Focused on family bonding, disciplining with compassion, and empathy, according to the Attachment Parenting site, it's good for your nurturing nature.
Scorpio (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21)
Scorpios tend to get a bad rap for their intense and mysterious persona, but at the heart of it all, Scorpios are just making sure they're safe and that they can trust you, as Astrology noted. Every parent wants to know their children are in good hands, so the Scorpio parent might find Gentle Parenting to be the best fit. According to The Gentle Parent by L.R. Knost, this style of parenting is best described as using, "connection, communication, and cooperation." Teaching your children the value of trust will go a long way for you.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21)
If you were to use one word to describe this sign, it would probably wanderlust since Sagittarius can get impatient, as Astrology Zodiac Signs noted. If you're constantly trying out new hacks from Pinterest and having out-of-the-box fun with your kids, then you'll be in good company with the Free-Range Parenting group. Perhaps you and your friends born under the Taurus sign can plan an adventurous play date.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19)
If you've ever wondered why the tenth sign of the zodiac is represented by some off half goat, half fish animal, it's because Capricorns can adapt to any environment, according to Astrology. Rolling with whatever life throws at you is an invaluable skill to have when you're a parent. Perhaps Ahimsa Parenting, which is described as following the Buddhist belief of nonviolence towards all things, is right up your alley with the chill vibes and zen outlook.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18)
One of the top traits of an Aquarius is their problem-solving skills and devotion to others, as Astrology Zodiac Signs noted. Don't get too burned out by putting everyone else first, though. Perhaps Mindful Parenting would help spread out the responsibility evenly and teach your children the importance of helping each other. Just call up your fellow Aries parent if you ever need a moment to catch your breath on a taxing day.
Pisces (Feb. 19 to March 20)
Arguably the most sensitive sign out of the Zodiac, Pisces can be quite the emotional creature, according to Astrology. What might fill your heart up the most is Attachment Parenting since it's all about creating lasting bonds with your loved ones. If you're ever feeling emotionally overwhelmed, you can always schedule a coffee date with your fellow Attachment Parenting buddy, the Libra, to help you stay balanced.