Chinese Culture >> Chinese Society Traditions >> Chinese Animal Signs
By: Cecilia Ko
Do you believe that the characteristics of the animal in the
year that your baby was born can influence your baby's character?
I did not believe this until I started my childcare centre and with each batch
of babies I learnt that they do have some common characteristics of their animal
signs therefore I had to tailor my care to meet their needs in the area of their
learning and activities. For example monkey children cannot sit still too long
so we had learning activities using a lot of movement like dancing and hide and
seek. Dragon babies are more 'intellectual' and able to sit still so they
benefit from use of flash cards. Knowing your baby's inborn characteristics will
make it easier for you to understand your baby and his needs so that you are
able to provide the support and care that is appropriate. Below is a quick and
simplified reference guide for you but please remember that it is not the only
aspect of influence.
Pig babies are joyful children who love to giggle and play. They are easy going,
helpful, courteous and kind. They love anything that appeals to the senses such
as music, good food and so on. They love to play with other children and usually
have many friends. They have confidence in themselves and in others but are
often naïve and too trusting which makes it easy to con them.
Rat babies love to be cuddled and tend to depend a lot on their parents when
young, but as they grow they develop natural leadership qualities which a trait
from being first in the Chinese horoscope. As toddlers they start to exhibit
very active mental abilities and are eager to learn. They love to collect things
and will fill their bedrooms with pebbles, bits of paper and anything they
fancy. Generally, young rats are smart little people with artistic and literary
skills as well as excel in sports.
Ox
babies are shy, quiet and amenable. They are independent, resourceful
children and are happiest when left to entertain themselves. If interrupted or
forced to do something against their will, they will likely pout or show their
temper. They are creative children who love subjects with constructive appeal,
art and music. They are usually polite, respectful and hardworking children.
Tiger babies are cheerful children with a zest and passion for life that ignites
their curious nature. They enjoy the competitiveness and athleticism that sports
require. From an early age, tiger children cannot pass on a dare or a challenge.
Intelligent and friendly, tiger children carry a curiosity about life and their
environment. In class, they tend to enjoy and do better at subjects that give
them the ability and creative freedom to express themselves.
Rabbit babies are very sensitive and tend to let their emotions get the better
of them. They cry easily and often become branded as cry babies by their
friends. They are very attached to their mothers and will maintain a close
relationship with them throughout their lives. These children need stability,
routine and a schedule in order to do their best. They are interested in the
arts especially music but will enjoy sports as well.
Dragon babies have vivid personalities and are independent from birth. They are
noisy and active with very imaginative and inquisitive natures. This could cause
them to be seen as naughty or trouble makers especially in school from the
teachers' views. On the other hand some dragon children are loners who daydream
and drift into their own world of make-believe. Either way, they need careful
attention and special handling to bring out the best in them. Their creativity
and talents must be encouraged.
Snake babies are often loners who enjoy playing quietly by themselves in their
bedrooms or yards. They tend to pout and hold grudges when upset, embarrassed or
angry and may lash out at the person who caused this emotional upset. They often
have learning disabilities therefore they need patience and extra time in order
to keep up to date with lessons taught in school.
Horse babies are chatty! At an early age they begin gurgling and "talking" to
themselves. They love to hear their own voice and so will babble for hours
without saying anything at all. Eventually, these children will make great
language scholars who will excel at communications. Horse children are
independent and will fight for their rights if they feel they've been wronged.
They will also rebel if they feel justice has not been served.
Sheep or goat babies are very sensitive. They cry at the drop of a hat,
especially if their feelings are hurt or they are embarrassed. Often they will
cry to get what they want. They are very affectionate and dependent on their
parents. They do not exhibit a great deal of self-confidence so parents and
teachers need to constantly encourage them to bring out their artistic natures.
They are generally well-behaved, well-mannered children, who despise aggression
and conflict.
Monkey babies are full of life and cannot stay still for long. They are
vivacious, colourful children curious about everything in life. Although they
are sharp and intellectual, their lack of concentration and playful antics in
school may land them in trouble with their superiors.
Rooster
babies are bright intelligent children and like to learn new things.
They are creative and alert. They play and interact easily with other children
and are always eager to please their elders. However, they are not the best
scholars but will excel in subjects where interaction and social skills are
required.
Dog babies are creative and able to entertain themselves for hours. They do not
mind playing by themselves, often inventing games and puzzles while doing so.
They are responsible children who love to take on and complete as many tasks as
possible which gives them a sense of achievement.
In case you are planning to have more babies the above chart might help you
decide which animal baby you want. Don't forget that there are other aspects to
consider such as compatibility with your own animal sign.
About the Author:
Cecilia Koh is a British trained nurse/midwife with over 30 years working experience. If you want to know more baby care topics go to http://www.Babiesconsult.com