Tips For Choosing A Name For Your Child

One of the most important decisions for new parents is to choose a name for their child. One’s name is an essential part of one’s identity.

The arrival of a new child means big changes for the family. It requires that you secure the house, reorganize your schedules, change priorities, etc. It also requires that you become more aware of your own health.

And of course, it also means that you have to make many important decisions, including the name of the little person who will soon be born.

How to choose a name for your child

There are many things that affect the choice of name for a new child, things like  religion, nationality, family traditions, etc. No matter what you base your decision on, your highest priority should be your child’s well-being.

1. Both parents should agree on the name

The name you choose should be something that both parents agree on. In fact, it may be the first of many agreements you have to make as a parent. It is not a good time to be impulsive or selfish.

If one of you does not like a name, you should drop it. There are endless options, and you can be sure that you can find one that you can both be happy with. Remember that a middle name can be a good way to satisfy both parents’ wishes.

2. Take your time

Take all the time you need to make a decision. As the baby’s date of birth approaches, you may feel pressured to make a decision, but it’s best not to get stressed. Instead, take as long as you need to choose a name.

3. Do research

It is important to do research because some names may have important cultural references. A name you both like can be linked to a famous literary character, a famous politician or an important historical figure.

When looking for a name, make sure it matches both parents’ values. There are different ways to find out. There are also books that can help you find out the origin and meaning of different names.

Of course, there are also sources online that can help you find the right one. However, you may find conflicting information when comparing different websites.

4. Be flexible

This is not an opportunity to be inflexible and refuse to compromise. “I want to name him after my grandmother, period” is not a very solid argument and it is not good for your relationship.

If both parents can not agree on a name, you must look for a solution together, in a constructive way. You will surely agree sooner or later if you cooperate. All names should be seen as an alternative, not an obligation.

5. Be careful with initials!

Sometimes, by pure coincidence, name choices can lead to unexpected problems in the future. When choosing a name, also look at the initials as some letter combinations can be embarrassing.

Avoid names whose combination forms words that can lead to your child being teased later. Remember that your child may be bullied at school if his or her initials form a funny or strange word.

6. Timeless names

Some parents choose names based on what is popular at the time of their child’s birth. Over time, however, these names may lose their charm and seem to lack meaning and originality.

This can have a detrimental effect on a person’s development. Your child may eventually dislike the name and even reject it completely.

There are several names that are classic and timeless. They never lose their charm nor do they have any negative effects on a person’s development. Some classic names include: Benjamin, Daniel, Mattias, Sara, Emily and Hanna.

Other names can be very cumbersome, like Madonna Shakira, and other amazing combinations. In the future, both you and your child may regret such a choice.

Many parents also use popular comic books as inspiration, but you should really think before you name your child after a cartoon character.

7. Simple names

Emotions can often get in the way when it is time to choose a name for your child. Statistics show that 6% of parents later regret the names they choose. In some cases, this is because they chose names that were too common.

But there are also cases where parents regret giving their children names that are difficult to pronounce or spell. It is best to choose a name that is easy for your child and others to learn. Otherwise, you and your son or daughter will probably get very tired of others having difficulty learning or spelling the name.

8. To honor someone

Sometimes you may have a reason to choose a name for your child that serves as a tribute to a loved one. If the circumstances surrounding the name are favorable, this can be a valid argument as long as both parents agree.

Choosing a name for your child is a big responsibility. It is important that you and your partner take your time and agree on a name that you both like.