Choosing a Baby Name

Choosing a baby name is one of the most exciting and challenging things a parent will do. There is an endlessly long list of baby boy names, baby girl names, popular baby names, and unique baby names to choose from, so it’s best to have some sort of direction as to what you want your baby’s name to be. Some good criteria to have are to make sure that your baby’s name is both practical and meaningful.
Choose a Practical Name: It’s important to remember that your child will have whatever name you give him/her, so you don’t want to make it too unique. Giving your baby a more popular baby name, however, does have its own pros and cons. Many popular baby names are very common, so be prepared for your child to share their name with three or four others in school. On the good side,

Top 10 Baby Names 2006

Data is courtesy of the U.S. Social Security Adminstration Top 10 Names for 2006

there won’t be any teasing from other children because of the name. Unique baby names stand out more and can give your child a sense of individuality, but there is a much greater chance of other kids making fun. Children can be cruel. Try out several baby boy names and baby girl names before deciding, and don’t rush into it.

Choose a Meaningful name: It’s also important to make your baby name meaningful. Take into consideration the religion, family and culture that the child will grow up in. Many names come from tradition and give the child a sense of identity. Another good idea when searching for baby boy names or baby girl names is to research the meanings of names. It can say something about your hopes and aspirations for your baby’s future.