Baby Names

Mom and Dad do not easily agree on a name!

One of the first and most important challenges faced by new parents, is the choosing a name for their new baby. You may imagine this is some sort of no-brainer and is something low on the priorities list, when faced with the myriad of daunting other problems looming in the world of parenthood. Even so, choosing baby names can be very time-consuming, frustrating and can even be a source of consternation not to mention aggravation, for new parents.

There are so many things to consider when selecting the perfect name for your child. Rarely will both parents have ideas that coincide. 

Start your search with a list!

Many parents don't have a clue about where to begin and they feel completely overwhelmed, in a stressful situation. The best place to start is with a list or baby name book.

Both parents should take a few minutes and jot down the first ten baby names that come to mind, that they would consider suitable for the new baby.

It's not as difficult as it sounds - it's surprising, just how many unique and quality names, have been stored in your memory, just as you go through your every day life. Be sure that you list names for both boys and girls, unless of course you already know the sex of your baby.

Compare his and her lists.

Once the parents lists are complete, both parents should then sit down and eliminate any names that either of them objects to. Even if there are only a couple of names remaining between the two lists, this is still a good start. It is not surprising that sometimes a name is suggested that brings forth bad memories and feelings from the past. In other word the association of these name can bring forth ‘bad vibes’, to either of the parents, so once a strong objection is raised, do not try to change your partners mind.

Don't miss out on name opportunities.

The next step, following this brainstorming session, is to define some, agreed upon, parameters for selection of your baby names. Think carefully about this and discuss your preferences for say, cultural backgrounds, family names and say a suitable number of syllables. This can be narrowed down to include, for instance, only names starting with specific letters. Be sure that you keep plenty of paper handy and be aware when you are out in the later months of pregnancy to listen for potential names when you're in the local store, or listening to the radio or just eavesdropping the conversation of others. You'll be surprised at how tuned in to Name seeking you become.

Babies names on the internet.

Be sure to use the Internet when baby names hunting for. So much of the work is already done for you. Use any search engine, Just type in the phrase 'baby names' and behold before your eyes a huge amount of websites appear, dealing with all facets of the subject.  You search can be narrowed down any way you wish. There are also forums where you can browse other people's name ideas and post your own, to get unbiased feedback as  you work through your choices.

As you start narrowing down your list, pay special attention to the possibility for teasing. Think of any negative words that may rhyme with or sound like the names you are considering choosing. Also, make sure to look out for undesirable letter combinations formed by the initials of any baby names that have made it onto your list. We will leave the possibilities that could result to your imagination!

Write out the names that you have come up with and be sure to say them out loud, to ensure that they roll off the tongue with ease. Again, try to be aware of any similarities to ‘negative words’ or phrases that could be formed by certain name combinations.

Use friends and family to test names you have chosen.

Be sure to ask friends and family for their thoughts and ideas. But beware! Your parents are from another generation and are likely to be stuck in ‘time warp’ when it comes to baby name choices. Also siblings can often be very opinionated and may try taking over the naming process.  Just keep in mind, that getting opinions on your baby names can help, but at the end of the day, what you name YOUR baby is up to YOU and your partner. You have the final say! If certain people have an real aversion to a name, that is high on your list, stick to your guns! Once people get to know your baby and there develops an affectionate bond, you will discover that they quickly forget any negative connotation they may have once had with the name, and will come to love the baby, name and all!

Choosing a babies name is a most important job!

After all, she or he, will have it for the rest of their lives!

So remember, choosing a name for your baby is a really big job, but it can be a lot of fun and it's a good way to get your mind off the aches and pains that come along with pregnancy. Going over baby names is something you can do with your partner, and this allows them to play an active role in the life of the baby, even before the actual birth. So rather than waiting to the last minute, take your time to go through the process, and you'll be sure to select a name that is perfect for your baby and will lasts him or her a lifetime!
HAS THE BABIES NAME AN INFLUENCE IN ITS FUTURE DEVELOPMENT?
Remember ‘My name is Sue’, from the late, great, Johnny Cash?

The thought is, does the choice of the Babies Name actually impact upon it’s future development. Would your child grow up differently, in character, if the name you chose had been different?
It is a big question and we do not have an easy answer, so CHOOSE WELL!