​​How I Use Astrology To Nurture My Kids’ Individuality

Whoever said parenting was easy? As a mum to two beautiful girls, a seven- and a two-year-old, I know firsthand the joys and challenges of raising children. On those tough days where the kids are just not responding to any parenting tactics recommended by influencers on YouTube or Instagram, I sometimes turn to the stars for guidance.

I remember the familiar sight of a yellowed-paged Linda Goodman’s Sun Signs book on my mother's nightstand. While I didn't pay much heed then, the influence of the mystical and the unseen has always been around me. I was fascinated by the idea that people’s personalities were influenced by a group of stars or planets sitting at some angle in our solar system, and how that could have anything to do with our lives.

During the pandemic, while working as a sleep consultant, I embarked on a deeper exploration of astrology. It opened up a whole new world, especially after having my second child. I didn’t realise the extent it would help me understand my daughters better as two unique individuals.

When I finally did a reading of my daughters’ astrological natal charts, so many things made sense: Their differences, how they react to situations, their love language, and even their meal preferences. 

For example, even though both my daughters are Earth signs, they process tangible things differently. My elder, a Virgo, is methodical and tactile. She needs to organise, plan and receive immediate feedback on her actions. My younger, a Taurus, is tactile but receives satisfaction through her senses — flavourful food and drink, constantly wanting to listen to music and wanting to choose her own clothing and shoes.

This understanding informs how I work with them. 

Beyond their sun signs, their motivations and the way they process difficulties are also quite different. When it comes to persuading my strong-willed Taurean toddler, protests are immediate and physical; thus, a gentle and distractive approach is needed. Whereas with my elder detailed-oriented Virgo daughter, persuasion must be met with detailed explanations, and I must be prepared to answer all her questions.

Understanding and celebrating their individuality  

Understanding my children’s natal charts allows me to gain a deeper understanding of their thought processes, motivations, as well as different preferences and approaches in life. 

I truly believe that if everyone understood their natal chart, we’d live more intentionally, with a greater sense of self-awareness and compassion. Take my husband and me, for example. My Sagittarius Mars, which fuels my passion, drive and motivation, is powered by freedom, exploration and new ideas; while my husband’s Virgo-Mars thrives on service and meticulous order. He has a passion for facts and figures which he uses to help people.

Astrology helps us appreciate these differences, fostering understanding and forgiveness in our relationship. It’s a tool for self-reflection and navigating our interactions with others.

I’ve witnessed parents embrace their children’s individuality through astrology. “It’s okay that my child is introverted,” or “It’s okay that my son loves books more than sports.” Astrology helps dismantle stereotypes, allowing us to celebrate our children for who they truly are. This acceptance is at the heart of why I’m passionate about astrology. I want everyone to feel empowered to be their authentic selves, free from societal pressures.

While astrology has historically been associated more commonly with predictions, its true power lies in self-discovery and guidance. A chart can reveal potential career paths, illuminate hidden talents, and even suggest ways to combine seemingly disparate interests. For instance, someone drawn to both journalism and biology might find fulfilment in scientific writing.

In cultures with rigid expectations, astrology can be a compass, guiding individuals towards fulfilling paths aligned with their true nature. It helps us understand not only career choices but also mental and physical well-being.

I envision a world where understanding one’s natal chart is commonplace. It would cultivate a society rich in self-awareness, compassion, and acceptance. By embracing astrology, we break free from limiting stereotypes and celebrate the magnificent diversity of human existence.

⁠Shubhra Venneti (@shubhravenneti) is an astrologer and Akashic Records reader who negotiates with her children on wearing appropriate clothing, coaxes them to hurry for the bus, and reprimands them in Mandarin. Seven years into motherhood, her proudest achievement is the girls cuddling each other during bedtime stories.