choosing a Baby Name

Throughout your pregnancy you have probably been making a list of possible names for your baby. Choosing a name for the newest addition to your family is probably one of the most important and exciting decisions you will make.

Naming your baby can be a pretty big task. There are endless possibilities out there, and it might take a while to find a name that both you and your partner are happy with.

The name you choose could be influenced by many things. Maybe you feel it’s important to follow family tradition and name your child after a parent or grandparent or maybe you are looking for a name that is really unique.  Names, whether or not you consider their published meanings, will be sure to conjure up all sorts of images and associations, which are sure to affect your choice as well.

To help you arrive at a name for your new bub, we’ve put together a list of things to consider while you trawl through the many names you come across in books, magazines, online and during your day to day life.

Nicknames

It’s almost inevitable that your child’s name will be shortened at some point - if not by you then by someone else. A nickname can be quite different from the original name - it may sound different, or conjure up different thoughts or emotions. So when you’re looking at names, consider any nicknames that might be created and decide whether you’re ok with these.

Pronounciation and Spelling

If you are considering a unique name, or a unique spelling for a name, make sure you give some thought to how easy it is to pronounce and spell. A unique name can be really special, but if it’s too complicated, it may also be frustrating for your child to have to frequently spell it out or correct people. 

Meaning

Some parents like to choose a name based on it's meaning. A positive meaning can draw you closer to a name or it may remind you of a significant event or time in your life. This can be a wonderful gift to give to your baby.

Length

If you have a long or hyphenated surname, you may like to consider a shorter first name to avoid too much complexity. Alternatively if you have a short last name, a longer first name may be a nice fit.

Initials

Check that the name’s initials don’t spell out an unfortunate sounding word. For example, you may think the name Peta Isabel Gordon is perfect for a girl – until you see that the initials spell out PIG.

Family or Cultural Traditions

Family names are wonderful but they may not be what you want to call your baby. Traditions and expectations can create problems for some couples so consider the compromise position of using traditional family names as middle names. Discuss your ideas between yourselves and announce your agreed position to all once you are both happy with your choices.

Match with Surname

Your baby’s surname is the name you have least control over, so be sure to take it into account when choosing a name (or names). Choose a name that complements the surname. Try to avoid rhyming first & surnames, and say the full name aloud to see how the names sound together. 

Celebrity Names

Many popular names, especially celebrity names can date quite quickly and may have a lot of baggage attached to them depending upon the celebrity’s behaviour. Always think about the longevity of your baby's name, as it will remain with your child forever.

Combining Names

If you have more than one name you like and cannot decide between them why not consider combining two together. This can result in some lovely, meaningful and unique names.

Names of Siblings

Similar to surnames, consider how the name of your new baby will fit in with the names of your other children.  If you are having twins or triplets, consider the names separately, as well as how they go together.