The High Priestess as a Child

Children naturally embody aspects of the energy of The High Priestess through their interactions with the world. The use of their imagination to wield creativity can see them turn a box into a castle or a floor into a field of lava. Children also have this innate radar to help them be alerted to precarious or “off” situations (isn’t this why so many children cry during pictures with Santa or the Easter Bunny? Something’s just not “right” and they detect that. And do we even need to bring up clowns – where something appears to be something it’s not?)

But at the same time, a lot of the energy of The High Priestess is about being self-aware, something that matures and deepens throughout childhood. Things like logic and emotion are not exactly balanced, and asking a child to be still (or quiet) or to pay attention to their “Jiminy Cricket” will last about 5 seconds before they forget and return to their stream of chatter. This certainly begins to change rapidly with the onset of puberty, and there is the opportunity for the development of a deeper connection and recognition.

However, there are, of course, traits of The High Priestess that are also apparent in children that we can help encourage:

1. Natural Sensitivity: Children are often highly sensitive and receptive to subtle energies and emotions around them. They may pick up on cues that adults overlook and intuitively sense the moods and feelings of others. This, unfortunately, often seems to lessen with age as children begin to become more emotionally aware of themselves.
2. Imagination Station: Children’s vivid imaginations often serve as a gateway to their intuition. Through imaginative play, storytelling, and creative expression, children tap into their intuitive wisdom and explore the realms of possibility. Frequently, when children don’t know how to express things, it gets expressed through imaginative playtime or art. Encouraging imagination is something that benefits children and adults (who, sadly, suppress a lot of their imaginative activities because of responsibility and easy entertainment). It’s also important to provide environments where children can (and are encouraged to) use their imaginations instead of sitting behind video games, TV, and iPads.
3. Instinctual Responses: Children often trust their instincts and gut feelings, especially in unfamiliar or challenging situations. They may express a reluctance or hesitation when something doesn’t feel right, demonstrating their innate ability to discern and respond to their inner guidance, even if they aren’t aware that they are doing it.
4. Connection to Nature: Children have a natural affinity for nature, and spending time outdoors can deepen their connection to their intuition. Nature provides a rich sensory experience that helps develop mindfulness, presence, and inner awareness. It can also help them being to focus on feelings or separate out specific sounds, smells, and visuals.
5. Encouraging Expression: Encouraging children to express their thoughts, feelings, and impressions can help to build a sense of validation and empowerment. Creating a supportive environment where children feel heard and understood allows their intuition and confidence to flourish. This also normalizes emotional expression for children so it is easier to be open later in life when communication styles (and willingness) change.
6. Teaching Discernment: While intuition is a valuable asset, it’s also important to teach children discernment and critical thinking. Helping children differentiate between intuition and fear-based reactions empowers them to trust themselves while making informed decisions; it can help identify emotional and logical responses and prompt them to take their time to respond rather than reacting impulsively

Here are some questions you ask your child that can help them embody the energy and traits of The High Priestess:

1. Can you describe a place where you feel calm and safe?
2. What thoughts or ideas come to you when you’re quiet and still?
3. If you could dream about anything tonight, what would you dream about?
4. When we go outside, what sounds do you hear when you listen closely?
5. Have you ever had a feeling that something was going to happen before it did? What was it like?
6. How do you know when something feels right or wrong in your heart?