Having a child is one of the most magical experiences of your life – but what about when it comes to naming them? Certain names simply don’t age well and when naming your little ones it’s important to consider how their name will sound 10, 20 and 30 years down the line.
Name trends
Although our generation seems to be enduring some sort of contest when it comes to strange and unusual baby names, you need to consider whether this is right for you and your child. From foreign cities to unusual spellings and TV show characters, there are a number of fairly whacky baby names out there today and not all of them receive much public support!
What’s in a name?
A name not only says a lot about the child, it also says a great deal about the parents. From race to social standing, there’s a lot to be said about a name.
Some may even go as far to say that your name is your destiny. This is certainly something to bear in mind when it comes to naming your child. A sensible name which ages well could influence how well your child performs in school. It may even affect his or her career opportunities.
For example, those with a more childish name may find it hard to be taken seriously, especially when signing off professional emails or divulging in phone calls. It’s important that you consider this carefully and assess how your chosen name will sound when your child is applying for a job, getting married or even viewing a property for sale.
Nicknames
Baby names that sound like nicknames may be just as cute as the child when he or she is little but as they grow older it can lose its charm. Opt for a name that offers the best of both worlds – something that can be shortened to sound sweet and cutesy when the child is small but said in full when they’re old to invoke confidence and respect.
Look to your relatives for inspiration
A lot of parents will name their little ones after a family member, such as a grandparent. Think about your relatives’ names and consider exactly what they conjure up when you hear them. You may believe certain names to be too old fashioned for a modern-day individual.
Agreeing on a name
Sometimes it’s difficult to find a name that both you and your partner agree on – certain countries even ask parents to have their names approved by the state! It’s therefore important to consider the meaning of a name, as well as the picture it brings to mind, prior to putting it on your newborn’s birth certificate.
Names that do and don’t age well
To help you get started here is a brief list of names that do and don’t age well – according to the web.
When choosing my name my parents decided it had to sound good, be a little unique (that failed when some famous lady with the same name fell down the stairs meaning the year after me ever female has my name!), looked pretty written down and that it could be dropped a few decibels and bellowed at the top of your lungs (obviously they assumed the worse) when I was in trouble :0)