Choosing your baby’s name is one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent. After all, picking the perfect name for your newborn is more than just an arbitrary task – it can become an expression of identity and a reflection of who your child is and what they stand for. (No pressure.  Hehehe) It can be both exciting and daunting to think about all the potential names out there that could be perfect for your baby, so it’s important to know how to approach choosing their name in a thoughtful way. With some research into popular trends, cultural history, family connections, personal meanings, and more, you can find the right fit for your bundle of joy.

Consider Family Heritage

First, think about your family heritage. If you’re choosing a name for your baby, it can be special to connect them with their cultural roots. Whether you come from a long line of European immigrants or are part of an Indigenous culture in the Americas, choosing a name that reflects where you and your partner come from can be a meaningful way to honor these dots on your family tree.

Consider Baby Name Trends

You may also want to consider popular trends when choosing a baby name. Many parents mull over the possibility of naming their babies after characters from books, movies, or television shows they enjoyed growing up. Some parents even look into choosing gender-neutral names that can be used for either sex. However, one of the downsides of picking a trendy baby is that it may not be unique when your baby enters school.

Naming Your Baby After Family Members

Naming your baby after family members can be a meaningful way to honor those who have come before them. It can provide the baby with an immediate connection to the family, as well as a sense of belonging and identity.  Our first born is named after my mother, who had recently passed away. (You can see more about our three daughters HERE.)  Making it a slightly different version of her name helped prevent the following.

However, choosing a family name can also be difficult or controversial. Will one person feel slighted if you don’t use his or her name? Will it cause tension in the family? While this shouldn’t be the main reason to choose or not to choose a name, it’s definitely something you and your partner should consider.

Choose a Baby Name that Resonates with You and Your Partner

Choosing a baby’s name is also about choosing something that resonates for you and your partner as parents. Take some time to think of names that have personal significance to either one or both of you. This could include the name of a teacher or mentor who was important in your life, or a city or place you’ve traveled to together that holds special meaning. Whatever name you choose, it’s important that both parents actually like the name and can see themselves calling a child by the name.

Here are some other important things to consider before you land on a name for your new baby:

-Will the name “grow” with your baby. Some names are cute for a baby, but seem a bit childish on an adult.

-Does the name have a natural nickname associated with it, and do you like that nickname?

-Consider the meaning of the name you’ve selected. Does that meaning resonate with you?

-Consider your baby’s initials. Will he be the butt of jokes and teasing because no one paid attention to them?