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Tips for Naming Your Baby
by Jennifer Grady, editor
Choosing a name for your baby is one of the most fun and difficult decisions you will have to make during your pregnancy. Here are some tips to help make your decision easier:
What are the initials?
Robert Allen Thomas (RAT), for example, may not make your child very happy once he gets to school. My husband and I unwittingly gave our daughter the initials, MSG! She's only 2 years old now so we'll see what happens when she gets older.
Will other children easily be able to tease?
You can't stop children from teasing each other, but you also don't have to make it easy. I know a woman who's name loosely rhymes with 'greasy dishes' and she suffered for it as a child.
How will you spell it?
For instance, you could spell the name Kayla as Keighla or Keyla. This might lead to a lifetime of your child saying, "KAYLA! K-E-Y-L-A. Not Keela, not Kyla--Kayla!"
What's the nickname?
Consider the possible nicknames that could arise from the name. For instance, you could name a little girl, Alexandra and call her Ali, Alex, Alexi, Sandy, Sandra, which are cute. Or you could name a little boy, Richard and call him Richie, Rich or _ _ _ _?!
How does it sound?
Naming experts say a long last name goes better with a short first name and vice versa.
Is it popular?
My name is Jennifer and for a couple of decades my name was in the top ten most popular names list. If someone yells my name in a crowded room, many women and girls come to attention. This was irritating for most of my childhood. As an adult, I'm no longer bothered by it. After all, I have my own child and more to worry about these days!
Ultimately, naming your child is up to you. It's a very difficult decision for most of us. Find a name that you, the parents, agree upon. And if your child wants to change their name on their 18th birthday? Well, what can you do!