Choosing a baby name is a big and almost always permanent decision.
For some people, the right name will come instinctively, but for others it takes a bit of thinking.
A new study says that between 11-30% of parents regret the name they choose for their baby.
Baby naming experts, Bella Baby, say it can be a ‘daunting’ decision, explaining: ‘There are many parents who worry about the impact changing a newborn’s name could have on them, even though studies suggest that you have up to six months to alter your baby’s name before it mentally confuses them.’
Advising it’s ‘best to take your time when selecting a baby name,’ the team have shared their top tips to ensure you get the right moniker for your new addition.
These are the things you should keep in mind when picking a name.
Is it a passing trend?
There’s no right or wrong name when it comes to trends, but reflect on whether you really like this name or if you just like the TV character/style/celebrity it is associated with.
Does this name have longevity?
Is there a meaning behind the name?
If you’re a deep and analytical person, name meanings could sway your decision.
Look up and check the meanings behind the names you have in mind and see if any feel like a good fit for your baby.
What will the initials be?
This is an important one, as your child will bear this for the rest of their lives (unless they hate it so much they change their name by deed poll).
Make sure, for example, that the initials don’t spell out another word – and if they do, that it isn’t offensive or could make them the butt of the joke.
How does it flow with the middle and last name?
Think about their name as a whole and consider how it sounds.
Is it a tongue twister or does it sound at odds? While not the be all and end all, it’s a good idea to pick names that flow.
Do you want there to be a nickname?
For any name, consider what the natural nickname would be and see if you’d even like it.
The chances are their friends will give them a nickname, so you might be hearing that more than their full name.
Spelling is key
If you want to jazz up the spelling of a common name to make it more unique, consider how practical it is and whether your child will spend their life correcting people.
It’s easy to get swept up in options you prefer without considering how your child will grow up with them.
Unique names can be great, but not at the expense of the many factors that make up a person’s identity.
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