How to Choose a Baby Name

Choosing a baby name is a big decision. You are giving a child a name that they will have for the rest of their lives. This name may help to define a person, and the baby name you choose may help to create the person that your baby becomes. Choose baby names wisely - you'll want to love the name and you'll want your child to love it too.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Think of baby names that you like. Read baby name books. Ask friends for suggestions. Think of names of meaningful people in your life. After you do this, come up with a list of baby names that you like and would consider naming your baby.

2. Read through your list of names and consider if any of the baby names have extra special meaning to you. Are any of the names special because they are names of people in your family, or maybe your friends? On the other hand, make sure the names do not have negative connotations to you - you don't want to choose a name which you associate with negative things.

3. Think about each baby name that you chose. Eliminate any names that you like, but you can't imagine working for your child. If you can't imagine the name working in a real life situation, you should not use it.

4. Think about the details of the baby names that you like. Will you be happy with each of the baby names that you are considering? Does the baby name you like best fit the criteria that is important to you? For example, would you prefer modern baby names? Old fashioned baby names? Classic baby names?

5. Think about each baby name and about its maturity. Will this name work for a baby? How about a teenager? What about an adult or elderly person? Would you feel silly at any age with the name that you chose? Would you be happy if you had to write this name on a resume?

6. Think about nicknames. Are you okay with the nicknames for the names you like? For example, you may love the name Nicolette, but if you can't stand the nickname Nicki, the name may not be the best option for your child.

7. Think carefully before choosing a name. Is it too trendy? Will it go out of style or define your child's age too easily? Is it easy to tease a child with that name? Does the name work well in your culture?

[2under2mom]

on 8/11/2009 Thanks!

[rewrite810]

on 1/24/2009 Well thought out, comprehensive tips. Thanks! 5*

[purrfect1969-2]

on 1/23/2009 Great tips on choosing a name for your baby.