1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009

Steady and loyal, the Ox is a faithful creature who always come through. Lean on an Ox in times of need—these kids have the strength to go the distance. This sign loves to be there for others, and thrives when given a post of accountability. The take-charge Ox is a rock solid family person and a lifelong friend. Children of this sign are steadfast and caring, offering their support to everyone from an early age: friends, siblings, pets, even you.

Change and whirlwind relationships aren’t big on this sign’s agenda, but marriage, deep connections and children fulfill them as adults. If you have an Ox daughter, you have full permission to dream about her wedding day, because it will eventually happen, probably scripted to the storybook vision you imagine. The Ox son lives to make his parents proud and can be a little “mensch” from an early age. (Ox-born U.S. president Barack Obama wrote memoirs about both his mother and father.)

Some may find an Ox boring, stubborn or set in her ways…a bit allergic to adventure. Like the plodding animal, the Ox may endlessly repeat the same habits, meals and conversations, sticking to the tried and true. The Ox calls that dedication and commitment, and these are this sign’s prized values. For the Ox, success is built on sticking to goals and honoring promises.

Of course, too much of a good thing can become a detriment. Your little Ox may need help embracing change or handling life’s inevitable transitions. Encourage your Ox to take more risks and branch out. It can be tough to get this kid to try new foods, start a new school or veer from a loyal social circle.

Parents of an Ox will need to give this kid a strong sense of routine, security and integrity. Without it this sign’s willful tendencies can turn toward the dark side, causing the Ox to act out fiercely in an attempt to force you to set clear boundaries. Remember, boundaries are what make children feel safe, because it helps them know where they stand. This is particularly true for the Ox, so be clear and consistent about rules and expectations.

Western Sign: Capricorn

Compatible Signs: Rooster, Snake

Famous Oxes: Heather Locklear, Nick Lachey, George Clooney, Heidi Klum, Barack Obama, Victoria “Posh Spice” Beckham, Tori Spelling, Jack Nicholson, Tyra Banks, Aaron Carter, Kate Moss, Malcolm X, Oscar De La Hoya, Madeleine Albright

See another Chinese Zodiac sign