Selecting a baby name can be difficult. The process starts out interesting and fun, but sometimes ends up frustrating. The advice below for selecting baby names can help avoid common pitfalls, and make the process more effective.
Start looking at baby names as early as possible. The tendency will be to select different names over time and discard them. Allowing enough time will make the final selection more your choice more solid and acceptable.
Use online resources. There are lots of great sites that list names, meanings, and origins of names. Will your child like their name? Think about how it will be preceived at school.
Think about how it will be perceived later in the workplace. Don’t give your child a name that will embarrass them.
Common baby names are that for a reason. They are time-tested, well-liked. Classic names always work well. Don’t necessarily go with the current trend. Tastes and fashions change.
Traditional boys names include James, Robert, John, William, Richard, Charles, Daniel, Thomas, Donald, and Ronald. For girls, names include Mary, Barbara, Patricia, Judith, Betty, Carol, Nancy, Linda, Shirley, and Sandra.
Baby names that are unique or trendy
In more current years, parents have chosen more unique names. Unique is fine – but not too unique. There’s nothing wrong with choosing a distinctive name. It can convey a positive sense of independence and strength.
Boys names in this catagory include Aiden, Jayden, Riley, Ethan, Jack, Avery, Ryan, Lucas, Connor, or Nathan. For girls, names could include Grace, Elizabeth, Isabella, Olivia, Emma, Madison, Jennifer, Natalie, or Hannah.
Naming a son or daugther after a relative is also common. Be careful about using a common last name for the middle name. This could end up being confusing Don’t make it all depend on a middle name. Make sure that all three names (first, middle, and last) sound good together.
The meaning of names
Pay attention to the meaning of names. Some names have an odd meaning that could be twisted by those who would make fun of the unassuming person. Do a background check on the name. On the other hand, a well selected name can be a source of pride to the one owning it. See the meanings in the table below as a sample.
Meaning of names - Most common selections
Isabella
Girl
My God is a vow
Jacob
Boy
Supplanter;held
Ethan
Boy
Strong, firm
Michael
Boy
Who is like God?
Alexander
Boy
Defending men
Emma
Girl
All-containing
William
Boy
Will, desire
Joshua
Boy
God rescues
Daniel
Boy
God is my judge
Noah
Boy
Rest; comfort
Sophia
Girl
Wisdom
Christopher
Boy
Bearer of Christ
Matthew
Boy
Gift of God
David
Boy
Beloved
Emily
Girl
Rival
Spelling and pronounciation
Spelling variations can be confusing. If the name can be spelled in different ways but all sound the same, there could be problems. Alicia, Alyssa, Alisha, and Elissa may all sound alike to some.
Both spouses should love the name
You and your spouce should love the name you choose. Don't stop trying until you agree. Don't allow other family members to pressure you. Finally, be proud of the person you are raising and the name you selected for them.
Meaning of names
is one criteria for selecting a baby name. Take your time and make the right choice