Now that you've had your pandemic 'coronababy', here's what you need to know about your "Year of the Ox" baby.
Is your ‘coronababy‘ due to arrive in 2021? If so, then congratulations — you’re going to have a baby born in the Year of the Ox! February 12, 2021 (or Chinese New Year) marks the start of the Year of the Ox, a year of great stability and nourishment, according to Chinese astrology experts. Expecting a baby right after a year of craziness means you’re probably extra grateful —or maybe downright surprised— for your special gift. And we totally feel you!
If you’re having a baby this year (’til February 2022, that is), you should consider yourself lucky: you’re going to have an independent bub who’ll be great at school and sports — whoop! Here’s what else we found out about babies born in the Year of the Ox…
What the Ox represents in the Chinese Zodiac
According to the Chinese Zodiac, the Ox is very hardworking and methodical. They are very balanced creatures, careful in every aspect of their lives. They also always have the energy needed to get back on their feet, even when going through tough times.
The perks of having a baby born in the Year of the Ox
1. They’re very focused
Thanks to their excellent work ethic, Oxes are natural goal-setters and will stop at nothing ’til they’ve achieved what they’ve set out to do. In fact, once your baby Ox starts learning how to walk, you’ll find them pulling themselves up, no matter how hard they fall. It might take them longer to learn something, but they won’t stop until they get there!
Parenting tip: Oxes like to take their time, so don’t rush them. Embrace their dedication to the task at hand and cheer them on when you can. The positive reinforcement will do wonders for their self-esteem and confidence!
2. They’re on track to be great athletes
The goal-setting mindset and focus of an Ox makes him or her a natural athlete. Their stubbornness also adds to their unwillingness to give up, which is definitely a plus-point for any budding athlete!
Parenting tip: Nurture these traits by enrolling bub in a baby swimming or gymnastics class. These classes will enhance their basic motor skills and mobility so they’ll have a better chance of zipping away on the track!
3. They will listen to you
Kids born in the Year of the Ox are known to be model children. They’re usually very obedient and thrive in a setting with rules and discipline. Also, they prefer having a routine. Perfect — until they become hard-headed teenagers, that is.
Parenting tip: Don’t take advantage of your Ox baby’s steadfastness; be grateful that you’ve such an understanding bub! Once they’re older, you might need to step aside so that they can learn their own life lessons and make their own paths.
4. They take friendships seriously
Just as serious as they are with other aspects of their lives, you can count on an Ox to be a dedicated friend. They are loyal and honest but are very cautious when it comes to forming new friendships.
Parenting tip: There are heaps of playgroups out there for you and your Ox baby to be a part of — bring ’em out and make some newfound friends!
5. They’re very independent
You don’t need to worry about guiding your Ox baby every step of the way — they prefer to do everything themselves! Whether it’s learning how to put on their shoes or feed themselves, they’ll put in the work, no matter how long it takes!
Parenting tip: When you can, resist the urge to help bub. By letting them take charge, it shows that you trust them and their abilities.
BONUS PERK: You’ll soon have a brand-new cuddly baby to be a mummy to! Yes, there will be sleepless nights, and yes, there will be lots of tears (from all parties involved). Thankfully, you’ve got the promise of an (hopefully) easy baby to look forward to. You’ve got this, mummy!
