Naming a child is an important job, so don't rush your decision. Both you and your partner should keep a list of your favorite names, making note of those names both of you like, and also any names that are a particular favorite of one of you and not the other. Discuss your lists together weekly. You may find it helpful to post potential names where you can see them often--such as on the refrigerator. Write each name separately, so you can switch them around, trying each as both a first and middle name. Be prepared to compromise with your partner. If you each have a favorite name that the other doesn't care for, you may find it easiest to choose the top name on your "agreed-upon" list.
Step 1
Use a baby name book or other name resource for ideas. Learning a name's history and meaning can affect your decision to bestow it on your child.
Step 2
Consult your family and friends for ideas. A family history can serve as a source of especially meaningful and significant names.
Step 3
Take inspiration from your religion if you wish. According to the website Baby Name Box, the majority of people in the Western hemisphere have biblical names, with those from the New Testament being the most popular.
Step 4
Say potential names aloud to get a sense of their flow and cadence. Avoid special or unusual pronunciations, which will necessitate that you and your child correct others about how to say the name.
Step 5
Choose a name that will age well. A trendy name may be all the rage at the moment, but try to imagine its appeal in 20, 30 or even 50 years. Take into account the fact that your child will carry the name for a lifetime.
Step 6
Avoid any combination of names that would create an embarrassing set of initials. Consider how the name looks as a monogram.
Step 7
Choose a first name that works well with your last name. Common names such as Smith blend well with just about any first and middle names. Other surnames, however, may limit your choices. If your last name is challenging to say and/or spell, it's best to stick to a simple and familiar first name for your child.
Step 8
Avoid "creative" spelling. In their zeal to make their baby's name special, parents can unintentionally saddle a child with a name that creates confusion, reminds the website Babies Online.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep in mind the length of your child's name. You will be filling out the name many times on forms, and your child will be writing it repeatedly on schoolwork.
- Remember that schools and businesses use automated systems to keep track of people. A name which is extra long, hyphenated or which contains an accent mark can be problematic for computer programs, causing the name to look incorrect on labels and lists.
Things You'll Need
- Baby name book or other baby name resources
