With my niece’s first birthday approaching, I’ve recently given thought to gift giving for the before-preschool sect. It’s not always easy to buy toys for a one-year-old who doesn’t speak (any language that can be understood, at least) and who has the attention span of…well, a one-year-old. But since she was born, I’ve always known she’d be musical and artistic. I wasn’t surprised when she took to her drum or began to dance before she could even walk. That’s because, shortly after she was born, I entered her birth details (date, time and city) into astrology software and cast her birth chart. Though she’s a September baby, the chart indicated she has strong Piscean inclinations, indicating she’d be drawn toward and talented in the performing arts. Each of the 12 zodiac signs is associated with certain qualities and personality traits, so it’s no surprise that those born in different months, under different signs, have unique interests and hobbies. Even if you don’t have all the tools to cast your little loved one’s birth chart for a more detailed picture of his or her psyche , sun sign alone can give you a good indication of where to start when it comes to picking up a toy or gift. Read on to find out what toys your tyke will love. Aries (March 21 to April 19) The athlete of the zodiac, make sure you buy your Aries an “active” toy. It could be a walker, tricycle or a pint-size basketball net. As long as it gets him or her moving! Toys that bring out Aries’ competitive streak (board games, for older kids) are also a sure bet. Taurus (April 20 to May 20) The Taurus child is very tactile, so anything soft and fuzzy is a good starting point (think plush toys and play mats). Taurus appreciates indulgence, so rich and luxurious presents, like jewellery, won’t go unnoticed, either. Gemini (May 21 to June 20) The conversationalist of the zodiac, Geminis are quick thinkers who are technologically savvy. A first cellphone (plastic, or the real deal) is never a bad idea. But for more low-key gifts, opt for books and learning games. Cancer (June 21 to July 22) Cancer loves the comforts of home. To cater to his love of the familiar and soothing, opt for a blankie, teddy bear or anything edible. If he’s old enough, a play kitchen will help foster his love of food. And don’t dare think about buying a Cancer a new teddy bear in place of that ratty one he carries with him everywhere—he will develop a case of severe separation anxiety! Leo (July 23 to August 22) The actor of the zodiac, Leo loves to be centre stage. A microphone will put her in the limelight, while anything labelled “princess” is sure to make her feel beyond special. Virgo (August 23 to September 22) Virgos are the most organized, detail-oriented of all the sun signs, so it’s only fitting that these babies excel at puzzles. Shape sorters are ideal for infants, while age-appropriate jigsaw puzzles are a great option for toddlers. Virgo also loves caring for others, so an electronic pet is a smart choice, too. Libra (September 23 to October 22) Your Libra appreciates the finer things in life, and beauty is of the utmost importance to him or her. A plastic mirror will ignite Libra's interest in esthetics. Meanwhile, a dollhouse also allows Libra the chance to explore interpersonal relationships and develop a social side prior to pre-K. Scorpio (October 23 to November 21) Scorpio loves to investigate, and this little one is sure to ask “why?” often once he or she can speak. A jack-in-the-box will delight babies born under this sign, who are intrigued by what’s hidden and beneath the surface. Sagittarius (November 22 to December 21) The adventurer of the zodiac, Sagittarius is always looking beyond the horizon—in a child’s case, the front door. A playhouse or outdoor climber is sure to bring out the explorer in him or her, while toy cars and trains speak to the Sagittarian love of travel. Sagittarius also loves to laugh, so appeal to his or her silly side. Capricorn (December 22 to January 19) This child colours between the lines. You'll never see a neater children's drawing than that of a Capricorn. Don't believe me? Pick up some art supplies for proof. Meanwhile, m ake-believe toys like a grocery store checkout or medical kit will delight the responsible sensibilities of the most mature of the zodiac. Aquarius (January 20 to February 18) Simple will not do. Aquarians dare to be different, so think outside the box when it comes to selecting a toy for this trailblazer. Nothing is too complex for this technologically advanced sign. Learning t oys and tablets will prep the Aquarian's brain for genius later in life. Pisces (February 19 to March 20) Since Neptune rules the performing arts (it’s always strongly placed in the charts of famous musicians), I’m convinced my Piscean niece is a budding Beethoven. That’s why I opted for musical instruments (think an xylophone, drums or a baby grand piano) for her first birthday. Pisces is also imaginative, so role-play games are a great option, too. Photo courtesy CroMary/Depositphotos