As we use Tarot as a tool for self-exploration and awareness, The Fool comes forward with several reminders we are invited to consider. Remember that becoming self-aware means listening to what is right for you while disregarding previous conditioning. We are looking for something that diffuses conflict and promotes growth and strong relationships. What works for you and your child (or loved one) may not work for others and may not be what you were taught.

Let's explore how The Fool can encourage you to be a better parent:

Embrace spontaneity

Children thrive on routine and structure. They grow strong when their world is predictable. However, it's also important to occasionally let go of rigid routines and embrace spontaneous moments with your kids. Whether it's having breakfast for dinner, picking them up from school for an unexpected movie outing, or just enjoying ice cream for breakfast, these small, random events can lead to more memorable and meaningful interactions that bring smiles to both of your faces. Embracing spontaneity helps your child navigate unexpected changes in their routine, and as the Fool reminds us, being ready for whatever new situation comes your way.

Be curious

The Fool is always eager for new experiences to learn and grow. Children have a natural curiosity and a thirst for knowledge. As adults, we often lose some of that curiosity due to responsibilities and time constraints. However, nurturing your own curiosity can not only strengthen your relationship with your child but also encourage them to be lifelong learners. Engage in what interests your child, ask questions, participate, and be competitive with them. This not only allows you into their world but puts you on their terms, making them more open to conversation as they grow.

Learn from your mistakes

I wish I could say I was "Parent of the Year" - or hell, even "Parent of the Month." I mess up. A lot. I respond emotionally or circumstantially without remembering that my experience is not my kiddo's experience or even understanding. The best I can do is recognize my mistakes when they happen and do my best to not make them again.

Further, I make sure I apologize to my kid when I'm in the wrong. I explain the situation as it pertains to me and tell them I'm sorry. This usually gets a reciprocated apology, and we both learn from the experience. I know that sounds very "kumbaya, let's link pinks and make a caring circle," but if it's heartfelt, your child will feel it. It also encourages them to be willing to recognize their mistakes and apologize when they offend. This is why the Fool carries a bag with him; he keeps in it his collection of lessons learned and words imparted to help him on his new adventure.

Establish trust

Parental trust is a tricky road with kids, especially teenagers. All kids are going to lie to their parents - that's just a fact of life. Still, it can be really disappointing. It's important to teach kids the concept of honesty and trust, but more so, kids need to see honesty exemplified by you. Do the things you say you're going to do. Be honest in situations where your child is watching. If the situation allows it, use it as a teaching moment to explain how you could have done one thing, but chose to be honest because it was the right thing to do.

Trust is also about faith. Not necessarily religious faith, but faith that things will turn out fine in the end. After all, The Fool trusts that the situation will unfold to their benefit. It's important that we not get bogged down in the swampy weeds of a single situation, but look at the bigger picture to see how things evolve. This faith can help you out of the sticks and back onto more stable ground.

Cultivate openness

The Fool is open to all experiences as they move forward on their journey. They understand that no adventure is purely good or bad, but a mixture of joy and unpleasantness. It's important to keep an open mind as a parent, particularly as the world has changed significantly since the time you were a child. Technology, trends, and access to information have evolved beyond what anyone could have imagined, and our children have to navigate this. They will be exposed to things you were not and be expected to exist and thrive in this new landscape. Gender, sexuality, self-identification, religious preference (or deference), historical ignorance... these are all topics we did not necessarily have to face as children. Being open to the experiences of your child will not only help them feel comfortable talking to you but will help them feel accepted and loved, even if their preferences are not the same as yours or what you would necessarily choose for them.

Remember, most of all, that their life and experiences are their own. While you can influence their path, ultimately their choices are theirs alone. Choose to be open-minded and supportive. Your child will reward you for your willingness to understand them.

Questions to Ask Yourself that Encourage Fool Energy

Here are a few questions for self-reflection when you draw The Fool in your daily or situational practice:

• How am I responding to something new beginning, whether that be new attitudes, interests, experiences, or phases?
• Do I allow room for mistakes? How do I recover from those mistakes?
• What is my general outlook on the situation? If not positive, what kind of changes can be made to help things feel better?
• Am I present in the moment?
• What is something I can do to build or strengthen my relationship of trust?

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