How to Decide on Baby Names

Picking out baby names is one of the most fun parts of pregnancy. Whether you're considering unique baby names or something more classic coming up with your baby's name is a huge decision. There is much to consider when naming a baby, since they'll have to live with it the rest of their life! Read on for tips on how to narrow down your list of baby names.

Instructions

1. 

   When considering baby names you'll first want to think about whether you want an older more classic name, a unique baby name or a popular name for your baby. If you're looking for tradition and something that's sure to stand the test of time go for a classic baby name. If you'd rather your baby stand out from the crowd go for something different and unique or get a sense of what's popular now and go for a more "trendy" baby name.

2. When picking baby names consider naming the baby after someone. It doesn't have to be a father or grandfather. You could name your baby after a deceased relative, a favorite character in a movie or book, a celebrity, or a religious figure. If you decide to name your baby in honor of someone remember the name doesn't have to be their first name. You could name your baby Olivia Rose because you like the name Olivia, and because you're husband's favorite aunt was Rose. One thing to consider when naming a baby in honor of someone in the family - will the other side of the family be offended or feel slighted?

3. 

   If you still can't come up with a list of baby girl names or names for a little boy there are tons of books and websites to help you. The internet is stocked full of suggestions for baby names. You can find suggestions for first and middle name pairings, get lists of names in alphabetical order, find out which baby names were popular in a certain year, or even filter names by meaning or origin.

4. Once you have a few names in mind both parents should each write their own list of favorite first names. Make one list of baby girl names and another list of baby boy names. Then go over the names crossing out names you don't like right off the bat. This should leave you with a few names you both like. (If not, go back to step 3 and start again! ) If you have two names you can't decide between see if they'll work together as first and middle names.

5. Consider if your child will end up getting a nickname based on the baby name you choose. If you don't mind a nickname that's fine, but some parents hate nicknames. If you're naming your son after his father he could get "little John," "Johnny," or "JJ." These are all nicknames that could stick with him well past his "little" years. If you like the name Jennifer, but not Jen you'll really need to insist that your daughter is called by her full name because it will inevitably get shortened, especially as she gets older.

6. 

   Review your choice for a baby name by saying it out loud. Say, and really listen to the first and last name together. Does it sound funny or rhyme? Is it a tongue twister or does it flow easily? Do the same test with the full first, middle, and last name. "Christopher Bacon" sounds innocent enough as long as his middle name doesn't begin with a "P" and you don't call him "Chris."

7. Write the baby's name and the initials on a piece of paper. How are you going to spell the name? Some names can be made more unique by having a variation on the common spelling. For instance "Malissa" instead of "Melissa." Take a good look at the initials. Do they spell anything weird or awkward or do they have a negative connotation? You may want to think about naming your baby Brian Andrew Doe since his initials will be "BAD."

Tips & Warnings

• Even if you find out the sex of your baby, have at least one name picked out for the opposite gender..just in case!

• Be careful about telling people your choice for a baby name. You are likely to get unwanted input.