Choose a name for each sex – so whatever the baby is, you are ready.
Once you get the wonderful news that a new baby is coming, it will be a while until you can determine the baby’s sex – IF you are considering finding out at all (food for thought – there is no better surprise, and nothing more worth waiting for). Having a boy’s name and girl’s name is a great start.
Your child will have to live with this name for a lifetime.
The name you choose for your baby (and future child/adult) should be worn happily. Will family, friends and one day, employers ‘take notice’ for the wrong reasons? Remember, kids can be cruel – don’t make life more challenging than it needs to be.
Choose a name that you are proud of, and makes you smile.
Naming your baby after family and friends that have special place in your heart is a great place to start. Are their special attributes you want your baby to carry – choosing a name that means something special is also a great idea. Our database can show you the meanings of over 40,000 names – of all different ethnicities.
Make sure the full name (first, middle and last) sounds good together.
Say the name aloud – is it easy or difficult to say the name? Choose a name that flows well together. Stay away from Jim Shoe (gym shoe) or names that when pieced together can have an alternate meaning.
Write the full name down – as well as the initials of all names.
If your baby name’s initials make up another word – be sure you are comfortable with what results. For example James Earl Thompson (JET) may be acceptable, but think twice about names like Daniel Irving Petty (DIP).
Spell it!! When writing the name down, was it difficult to spell and/or say? If you had problems, you may want to reconsider the name.
Nicknames are inevitable.
When your child goes to school, joins a sports team or club, chances are a nickname may be close behind. Some nicknames can be endearing, but others may not be what you had in mind when naming your baby. Many times, Alan Jackson results in AJ – be sure this is acceptable, as many times, it is ultimately out of the parents control.
Naming your baby after a sports figure, movie star, or political hero
Be sure you want to go this route, prior to naming your baby. While the name may be beautiful – it could become overly popular. Or, if the person falls out of favor, it may result in giving the name a negative stigma.
Naming multiple babies
If your family is going to increase by more than one baby, there a few things to consider. First, naming babies with the same first initial may be confusing – for you, the babies and future teachers. You may want to consider choosing different initials – giving each child a unique name. Second, when in school, one name may be called before the first forever. Giving the babies different middle names may ‘balance’ this out – Alan Jeffrey & Brian David (A before B, D before J). Finally, choosing different initials may make things easier when accepting gives containing your babies’ initials. If each baby’s name contains the same letters – it will be difficult in determining which gifts belong to which baby. This will only get more challenging with time.
Religious & Traditional considerations
Some families have a tradition in passing down names from generation to generation. Make sure you check with both parents’ families first. Also, some religions don’t allow babies to be named after living family members. Be sure to check your religious beliefs as well.
Finally – Select multiple names for your baby.
Chances are, you and your partner, your family, and others will all have a different name in mind. While the decision ultimately comes down to the parent(s), keep your mind open to suggestions. Not only will this help in selecting the best name for your baby, but it will make your life easier along the way. |
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