January Parenting Horoscopes
The last two decades have seen an unprecedented rise in conscious parenting. New approaches like Montessori, gentle parenting, and slow parenting have arisen as alternative options to the authoritarian style of yore. Additionally, the Internet has made it easier to share resources and learn from those who have “gone through it” before us. Of course, raising a child isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. Most parents will tell you that their own approach includes a little of this, a little of that, and above all else adjustments for their particular kid’s needs. Enter: astrology.
While plenty of articles explain your own parenting style according to the zodiac, there’s currently very little on how to adapt that to your child’s individual needs. Starting in January 2023, Ragamuffin is offering monthly Parenting Horoscopes. By cross-referencing resources like Astrology Zone’s Susan Miller, the Astro Poets, and NASA’s Solar System Tracker, we’ll suggest planet-informed parenting tips adapted to each sign of the zodiac.
Remember, these signs are written with your child’s sign in mind. That said, feel free to read the entry for your own astrological sign and report the findings back to grandma. Whether you truly believe the stars have a say in our fate, or you’re just reading for fun, we hope you’ll get some good insights on how to raise individual humans of every disposition.
Aries: Aries is the first sign in the Zodiac, so even if your little ram isn’t the eldest child, they sure may act like it. Headstrong and passionate, Aries’ get excited by new beginnings but have a tough time following through. Help them achieve their dreams by guiding them through making some New Year’s resolutions. One final note: Jupiter is in Aries this year until mid-May, and won’t be back in that sign again for 12 years. This is an extremely lucky planet with far-reaching consequences. Pay close attention to your Aries in the coming months, which may set a pivotal tone for their future.
Taurus: Above everything, Tauruses love to be cozy, so bundling up through the winter is no problem for them. The added Uranus retrograde in Taurus this month has only strengthened this quality. Indulge in their strong desire to nest by providing them with plenty of soft blankets, warm fires, and comfort foods. That said, sometimes their tendency to nap turns into hibernation. Make sure to regularly prod your kid towards activity. Remember, this sign is very stubborn, so the more self-directed the better. Just set a gentle guideline to do something active or creative at least once a day. The reward: tons of cuddles, treats, and reassurance.
Gemini: Hyperactive Gemini’s tend to struggle during winter months. With Mars in Gemini until March, Gemini’s need for stimulation, attention and communication is stronger than ever. To make sure they don’t use the iPad to meet all of their needs, it’s your job as a parent to provide them with plenty of activities. Offer craft projects, snow day activities, and indulge in their many questions. Though it may seem annoying at times, indulging their curious mind now will help them grow independence. If your Gemini has siblings, they’ll thrive as a leader and instigator of fun. If they’re an only child, make sure to schedule lots of playdates and after-school activities to socialize them to their heart’s delight.
Cancer: Planetary speaking, this is a quiet month for Cancers, which suits them just fine. The homebody of the zodiac, this sign thrives in a quiet house. With family, they feel most comfortable being themselves– even if that self is slightly moody and temperamental. With big emotions comes a big heart, so set aside time to discuss feelings with your Cancer in-depth. Explain how you handle your own “big feelings”, and suggest that sometimes an emotion that feels super loud inside can be quieted when shared with a parent or friend. They’ll value you directly addressing their inner world.
Leo: It should come as no surprise to you, dear Parent of Leo, that your kid loves attention and drama. Though their dancing, character impressions, rambling stories, and general flair may seem like silly kid stuff to you, pay close attention! They may be revealing to you the deep passion that could fuel the rest of their lives! Don’t hesitate to get this little lion set up for success: drama camps, music lessons, science clubs and art classes will give your kid the tools they need to thrive in the limelight they so desire.
Virgo: How funny is it to have a kid like yours? With their love of organization, systems, and rules, Virgos often thrive as adults but struggle to find their place as children. To keep them from getting too obsessive, guide their methodical inclinations towards something productive and relaxing! Teach them a new skill, like cooking, biking, or building. And when they do inevitably get stressed out, validate their emotions first before offering solutions. Though it may be easy for you to see a clear path out of whatever’s overwhelming them, your kid just wants reassurance like anyone else.
Libra: Libras are known for valuing balance, and they’re also the most social of all signs. Address both needs by making sure they have a clear and embedded role in their community. Ask a teacher for insight on how your kid is doing in the classroom, and opportunities where they can shine. More than any other sign, Libras may most benefit from having a parent in the classroom. Consider volunteering to help out at a field trip, after-school program, or the Valentine’s Day party!
Scorpio: Scorpio is the most secretive of all water signs, and sometimes it may feel like your child is a mystery even to you! The real truth is that Scorpios were born with a deep emotional wisdom which takes years to reveal itself. This power can be overwhelming and confusing for a young child, so make sure to foster strong communication skills with them. Give yourself time to reflect on your own emotional state so that you can model openness and transparency effectively and with patience. Pay special attention to your kid’s relationship with siblings and friends, as they have a tendency to become brooding and jealous. Over time, your little water child will become capable of explaining the big feelings they are having, and even surprise you with wisdom beyond their years.
Sagittarius: Similarly to the other fire signs, Sagittarius’ can struggle with feeling cooped up during winter. Luckily, their adventurous spirit and headstrong ways will thrive in the great outdoors, no matter the weather. Stock up on sleds, scope out the best hills in your neighborhood, and prepare yourself for long walks all winter long. Once your Sag gets a taste of that crisp cool air, they’ll be persistent in their requests for “five more minutes!” of playtime. If you need to redirect their energy, have a few interesting philosophical questions on hand. A Sag can’t help but wonder about the big questions of the universe, and before you know it you’ll be winding down by the fireside with a long discussion about the ethics of snowmen. Now good luck getting them to bed…
Capricorn: You’re likely glad school is back in session, after fielding an infinite line of questioning from your little Capricorn all winter break long. And it’s true– with an inquisitive mind, hardworking spirit, and ambition beyond their years, Capricorns feel most happy in an academic setting. Just keep an eye out and make sure they don’t overdo it. Though they’ll always want to be the highest achiever, baby burnout is a real thing. Direct their drive toward a leisure activity that still satisfies their thirst for knowledge, like reading or art. Another note: Mercury, the planet of communication, memory, and travel, is in Capricorn for the next few months, so your kid’s desire to do everything all at once will be stronger than ever. All you can do is weather the mind-storm, answer their questions, and plan a relaxing spring break where they can crash when it’s over and done.
Aquarius: As the most unique sign of the zodiac, it may seem that your Aquarius child belies all comprehension. They live in their own little world, gravitate towards the strangest activities, and say the darndest things. With Saturn, the planet of justice and discipline, in Aquarius, your kid’s odd energy may be ruling the entire house. Our advice? Lean in! We have a lot to learn from this mysterious air sign! Though they don’t operate by the same rules as human society, they are in tune with the older language of nature. Instead of trying to control or even comprehend just follow their lead and see what happens. The answer may surprise you!
Pisces: As the youngest sign of the zodiac, your Pisces will always be your baby, no matter their birth order. These water children are dreamy, creative, and deeply emotional. You’ve probably already learned that a “because I said so” approach will never work with them. Instead, meet them where they’re at: whip out the costume box and follow their lead during a game of pretend! As long as they feel that they’re being heard and that their inner world is respected, they’ll keep the tempest tantrums at a minimum. And when Venus enters Pisces on January 26th, they’ll enter a new state of calm and be your loving child once more.