Once the lists are complete,
both parents should sit down
and eliminate any names that
either parent objects to.
Even if only a couple of names
remain between the two lists,
this is a good start.
The next step, after this
brainstorming session, is
to define some agreed upon
parameters for your baby names.
Think about and discuss your
preferences for cultural backgrounds,
family names and number of
syllables. You can also narrow
it down to include only names
starting with specific letters.
Make sure that you keep plenty
of paper handy and be aware
when you are out and about.
Listen for potential names
when you're in the grocery
store, listening to the radio
and walking through a park.
You'll be surprised at how
tuned in you become.
Make sure to use the Internet
when hunting for baby names.
So much of the work is already
done for you. Using any search
engine, type in the phrase
'baby names' and a huge amount
of websites will appear, handling
all facets of the subject.
You can narrow down your search
any way you wish. There are
even forums where you can
browse other people's name
ideas and post your own to
get unbiased feedback as you
work through your choices.
As you start to narrow down
your list, pay special attention
to the potential for teasing.
Think of any negative words
that may rhyme with or sound
like the names you are considering.
Also, look out for undesirable
letter combinations formed
by the initials of any baby
names that have made it on
your list.
Try writing out the names
that you come up with and
make sure to say them out
loud, to ensure that they
roll of the tongue with ease.
Again, be aware of any similarities
to negative words or phrases
that may be formed by certain
name combinations.
It is also a good idea, to
ask friends and family for
their thoughts and ideas.
But beware! Your parents are
from another generation and
they may be stuck in a rut
when it comes to good baby
name choices. Too, siblings
can be very opinionated and
may try to take over the naming
process. Just remember, that
getting opinions on your baby
names can be helpful, but
at the end of the day, what
you name your baby is up to
you and your partner. You
have the final say! If certain
people have an aversion to
a name that is high on your
list, stick to your guns!
Once people get to know your
baby and form an affectionate
bond, you will find that they
quickly forget any negative
connotation they may have
had with the name, and come
to love the baby, name and
all!!
So remember, choosing a name
for your baby is a big job,
but it can be a lot of fun
and it's a good way to get
your mind off the aches and
pains that come with pregnancy.
Going over baby names is something
you can do with your partner,
and it allows them to play
an active role in the baby's
life even before the actual
birth. So rather than waiting
to the last minute, take the
time to go through the process,
and you'll be sure to select
a name that is perfect for
your baby and lasts a lifetime!
Good Luck!
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