by Nancy Frederick

Alternately surly and insecure, frighteningly coifed or made up, and joined at the hip with carefully selected members of their peer group, teenagers can seem like a whole separate species. This peculiar race of seemingly sub-humanoids can send parents fleeing to therapy. (At least it gets you out of the house and away from their line of fire.) How about some astrological insight into your teen? Read on!

Aries Teens (March 21 - April 19)
This child has been on what's terrifyingly seemed like a search and destroy mission since infancy. Now something new has been added to the Aries teen's arsenal -- your car keys. Umpteen years of love and devotion and this child goes seeking their true inspiration -- Evil Kenevil. Forget sanity and discipline. You can't fight them -- so join them. Outdoor activities and sporting events give you common ground and the opportunity to protect these daredevils from themselves.

Taurus Teens (April 20 - May 20)
The Taurus child is generally placid and good natured. The only real sign of rebellion is symbolized by their locked bedroom door. This teen is frugal and that can be good news when it comes time to pay for college. You'll still be paying, but at least your teen can offer tips on investing the three bucks you have left over. Good meals are always the hallmark of any Taurus life, so when you want to bond, cook gourmet meals or treat them to dinner at fancy restaurant.

Gemini Teens (May 21 - June 20)
It's a high-tech world and this is one child who must always be connected. Buy some postcards and stamps if you're determined to remain in touch with relatives and beloved friends because your teen will definitely monopolize the phone and the computer. Adding another phone line is just self-defense. After all, you might have to call 911 some day. The way to connect with a Gemini teen is through conversation. Even if your teen is in a sneeringly rebellious mood, this gregarious sign can never resist a good chat.

Cancer Teens (June 21 - July 22)
Cancers are the cuddliest babies. As teens, even when they want to hate mom and dad, they can't resist loving you and needing a hug. Family is the most essential thing to any Cancer and this teen will adopt a collection of friends for that close knit, clan-like feel. But the good news is parents seldom need worry about where their child is -- Cancer teens and three hundred of their closest friends will be permanently camped out in your living room. Provide cookies and ice cream and you might even get that hug.

Leo Teens (July 23 - August 22)
It was probably a Leo teen who coined the term "party animal." Social, gorgeous and popular, Leo needs to be at the center of everything. Even though this teen, like every other, wants to assert their individuality and bond with friends instead of (ewww) their parents, your gold card will always bring this kid back home. Leos have to look good and parental largesse is the only way to accomplish that noble goal. Those few moms and dads whose looks aren't a total embarrassment are occasionally allowed along on a shopping spree. Just remember not to moan, "But you already have twelve of those." Having too much of everything is a Leo's reason for living.

Virgo Teens (August 23 - September 22)
The problem with having a Virgo teen is that you've raised someone stricter than yourself. There's the flamboyant wardrobe, the tendency to snack between meals, the desire to leave the dishes undone -- oops that's you, not Perfect Teen Virgo. Expect plenty of comments about your flaws and frailties. Other children rebel and act like fools. This teen seems to be channeling your sternest grandmother -- or crabby mother-in-law. Be willing to clean out closets or the garage together -- and if you do a very careful job you might even get a nod of approval.

About the Author
Nancy Frederick has been writing about New Age topics and counseling clients all over the world for over twenty years. Her most recent astrology book, 'The Astro Tutor', is currently available.