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Name Quest

10 Helpful Hints

By Meta Davidson

Pages:  1  2  

Naming your baby is one of the most exciting activities in preparing for its birth. It is also one of the most important decisions you make. Many factors go into this decision.

Here are 10 hints on how to name your baby.

1. The name should have a positive connotation for you. It should be associated with pleasantries. The definition should also be meaningful. A name is a strong first impression. Imagine the child using the name not only on the playground, but as an adult.

2. The first name's rhythm should complement the last name. In general, the number of syllables in the first name should not match the number of syllables in the last name. Say the first, middle and last name several times to test the rhythm. Say the first name and last name together, too.

3. The initials should not spell anything undesirable. This goes for the two main initials, as well as all three initials. If the initials are not satisfactory, then the first and middle name can be switched. The child can still use the middle name on a daily basis.

4. Check the pronunciation and spelling of the name. If you use an unusual pronunciation, your child will need to continually correct it. If the spelling is unusual, your child will have to correct that as well. The advantage is that if the name is popular, your child will not be so easily confused with others.

5. Honor a family member or friend with the name. You can use the same name, a variation of the name or the first initial. Check with your parents or grandparents to collect as many family names as possible. You can even use the first initial of several names to create a new and unique name!

6. Combine names to create a new name. You can choose two or more words to create a unique name. You can even scramble the letters in a word to create a unique name.

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