Choosing a baby name is one of the most important things you can do for your child. It will be with them forever so make sure you take all factors into consideration. Some people have and easy time with it and others will struggle and change their minds for the entire pregnancy. I have a couple pointers that I hope helps get you started if you have not already decided. We are hoping to jog some new ideas that you might not have considered yet and help you come up with that perfect name!
How To Choose A Baby Name
First, you need to decide what is most important to you in the name. The way it sounds, looks when it is spelled, how it will be written or read? Do you have a family name that has been in the family for generations? Picking out the top features that are important will help guide you in the right direction.
Here Are Some Things To Consider When Picking A Baby Name
Family Names:
This ons is not as much of a no brainer as you might originally think. It will all be dependent on the sex of the child and the name you are trying to stick with. Often you can still use names for middle names (many use Maiden names or last names for middle names). Maybe you are looking to start a tradition. Dig through the family tree and see what jumps out at you. Last names from your family tree can be used as unique and distinguished first names for your child. Many people feel that giving their child a family name helps to pass on the family and their values.
Names You Love
This one is directed at the women. I am sure you have a couple names that you have just fallen in love with. Write them down and keep them handy so you can refer to them and add new ones when necessary. if you come back to the list every once and an while you will likely cross some out with a “what was I thinking.” But over time it will help you hone into the name that will eventually stick.
Baby Name Books And Websites
This is very common these days but can be equally confusing. Most books and websites will have 10′s of thousands of names and can actually often make it more overwhelming. Unless you are really sure you can handle it or are very stumped – I would wait to buy a book or visit a website for names. But if you do, I like the list method very similar to the list of your other favorites. Keep it in the front of the book and check it out each time you come back to the book.
Suggestions From Family And Friends
This is another tricky one. You have heard the phrase “Be Careful what you ask for!” Well when you open this can of worms people often get very vested in the situation and wonder why you did not use their name. I have had some friends that do not even tell people the names until after the child is born so they do not have to explain why they picked what they picked. Myself – I told everyone up front and if they didn’t like it – TOUGH.
Unique Names
Maybe a name of a city or state catches your fancy. Names that are unique, often come from places or things that are not normally considered as names for a child. Keep your eyes and ears open and an open mind, when you are looking for a unique name, for your baby. You may be surprised from where the inspiration comes, when choosing a name for your baby that is unique. Also be sensitive that your child will live with the name before you get to clever or weird. You know what I mean – enough said.
We will know when you have found the perfect name and I will guarantee that you will have it well before the baby gets here. My suggestions I hope help but feel free to decide for yourself what works best. Good luck and congratulations!
