How to choose a name for your baby?

Choosing a name for your baby is perhaps one of the most important decisions you’ll make on behalf of your child. The name of your baby is something personal and is the basis of your child’s identity…  There is so much to choose from, but luckily you have nine months to do this. Discover our tips to find a name for your newborn !

5 tips to get you started when choosing a baby name

Tip 1 – There are so many lists of baby names out there. Common names, short names, flower names, classic names, crazy names. Make sure your favourite name doesn’t mean something horrible in another language. Google is your best friend in this;

Tip 2 – Exclude names – have a ‘veto’ list with your partner. In addition to making a list of names you like, also make a list of names you absolutely don’t want.

Tip 3 – Say the names out loud. A long surname is often more beautiful with a short first name and vice versa;

Tip 4 – Does your child have a common surname? It might be better to choose a less common first name; otherwise, confusion can arise later in their life.

Tip 5 – Imagine your child as an adult. Does your favourite name sound as good on a professional grown-up as it does on a pre-schooler?

Did you knowand there are some really helpful websites such as Namiiz which features any options such as English names, Canadian names, short names, and rare names ?  This baby names search engine is the perfect tool to help you find what you are looking for.

What should you consider when choosing a baby name?

Of course, you want to come up with a nice, original name that suits your baby completely. That’s quite a challenge! Here are a few more suggestions to consider when choosing a baby name.

• Don’t leave it until the last minute. Start speculating about the perfect baby name in time. Keep lists, so you don’t forget the names as they come to mind.
• Do you want to give your child several first names? Take a look at the combination that the initials will form and make sure they don’t spell anything weird or inappropriate such as Penelope Ophelia Orpington.
• Keep in mind that the name should also work for an adult.
• Of course, you don’t want your child to be bullied later. Therefore, check that the name does not resemble or rhyme with dirty words.
• You don’t want your child to be in class with three other Olivias or Alfies. Trends influence you, which is why choosing a name that is not too popular is essential. Choose a name with a not-too-complicated spelling and pronunciation.
• And, very important: make sure you both like the name. After all, you will use your baby’s name for the rest of your life.

Final suggestions on how you arrive at the perfect baby name

A good place to start is to look at the current top 100 most popular baby names in your country. This will give you a pretty good idea of the types of names being given now. Good luck with the fun but difficult challenge of choosing the perfect baby name! 

Remember that you should always choose the name you like best and don’t focus too much on what other people think about it. Names are very personal, and everyone has a different view on this. Once you’ve made the decision, it’s wise to keep the name a secret until the baby is born to avoid friends and family members possibly upsetting you with their opinions.

Other articles from totimes.ca – otttimes.ca – mtltimes.ca