by Samuel F. Reynolds

Although there have been many manuals and books written on parenting, probably the oldest and most visible manual is the one written in the stars. These stars have guided humanity for eons. Our children deserve our very best, and what better way to understand ourselves and our parenting than to be tutored by the stars? In this brief guide, we'll highlight the parenting strengths of each sign and where we can take parental time-outs to minimize harm to ourselves and our children.

Aries (March 21 - April 19)
You love to be on the go with your children, and if you have fairly active kids, they'll love you for never letting them get bored. Time out: If your children are a bit shy or more reserved, you may come off as domineering and insensitive. Take a step back occasionally.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
You act as the very Rock of Gibraltar for your children. They know they can always count on you for comfort. Time out: Your consistency can turn into either stubbornness or inattentiveness as your children attempt to get you to adapt and understand their ever-changing situations.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
Like Aries, there's never a dull moment with you. You like to keep your children active, while checking in with them with constant communication. Time out: You may put too much emphasis on doing and talking, rather than just being with and comforting your child. Emotional connection isn't always verbal.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
Your need for a calm and nurturing home will be much appreciated by your children, even if it feels stodgy to them. Time out: You cannot protect your children from all the vagaries of life, so don't shelter them too much

Leo (July 23 - August 22)
Your enthusiasm and zest for life can be infectious to your children, and your children will learn the beauty of generosity from you. Time out: Your children may not know how to be as “big as life” as you and may feel left in the shadows at times. Be sure to share the spotlight with them as often as possible.

Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
Your children learn from you that there is an order to the world around them, and they can rely on your practical and sound advice. Time out: Order isn't the only game in town. When things are in disarray, be mindful of nagging or worrying too much over your children.

About the Author
Samuel Reynolds has been a practicing astrologer for over 14 years. He is the co-creator of the Zodiac Lounge, a roving renewal center featuring body workers and psychics in New York City, and The Astrology Career Institute, a new center for training professional astrologers.