If the Leo child shows a particular interest in any hobby or pasttime, it is almost assured that this will be an interest to last for many years, if not an entire lifetime. The enthusiasm of this Sign is confident and very stable and such children do not seem to "come and go" as much as their peers. However, since little Leos are often fixed in their ways, it is vitally important to establish good childhood habits in terms of diet, exercise and manners, etc. It will be very difficult to change the behavior of this child once he or she reaches the teenage years and beyond. There is an extremely powerful creative urge present in this Sign and it would be a shame not to encourage this little one to express his or her creativity. Not all Leo children will be artistic and, indeed, there is a distinct difference between being "artistic" and "creative." This child may excel at painting, drawing or crafts, but could equally excel in stage productions, the kitchen, the garden or in the fields of sewing, story-writing or inventions.
The vitality of Leo is strong and children who are governed by this Sign are usually brimming with energy, possesed with a tendency to be bright, alert and constantly "on the go." Good sleeping habits are paramount since even very young children are apt to "burn themselves out." The heart and the back are areas of the body traditionally associated with Leo and such children should exercise both of these areas on a regular basis in order to remain healthy. Forms of exercise which contain a creative element...dancing, ice-skating and gymnastics, for example...are especially appealing to the little Leo and should be encouraged.
The Leo child will undoubtedly be exceedingly sensitive, self-willed, talented and intuitive. Thus, any caregiver should strive to teach this little one self-control while, at the same time, presenting an example of right living. A strong hand is required with these children in order to afford them guidance and to guard them against the many evils and vices to which they are prone by nature. Their minds and hands should be continually employed with pleasant, wholesome and useful tasks, keeping in mind that the child who falls under the jurisdiction of this Sign will need varied amusements to constantly be supplied. Every effort should be made to provide the correct training and restraint in order for the little Leo to develop into the grand and noble character which he or she is so capable of becoming. While these children learn quickly, they are not fond of studying.
Of course, as this little one grows, the personality will develop. There is a tendency here to be high-tempered and caregivers need to be cautious of exhibiting impatience and/or anger in the correction of this child. As he or she reaches maturity, there will be an abundant display of vigor and determination, coupled with a love of drama and plenty of exuberance.
The Ruling "Planet" of the Sun gives the children of Leo a naturally warm-hearted and fun-loving personality. In short, these little ones are full of life, which can frequently get them into mischief. Being very sensitive souls, they require a great deal of sympathy and, if such is withheld, may become so combative that it results in an ungovernable nature. Since Leo is one of the Fire Signs (together with Aries and Sagittarius), any child governed by this element will need to learn patience above all else. Second in importance will be to learn respect for the rights and feelings of others. Last (but certainly not least), children of Fire should be afforded every opportunity to work off excess energy...play, sports and dancing are all excellent avenues. Talk works much better than punishment with Fire children. In fact, too much punishment can easily result in a rebellious and "wild child."