- Consider whether to go for a traditional or unique name.
- Consider the meaning of the names—perhaps in different languages.
- Consider what the initials will be when put together.
- Consider how the first name sounds with the surname.
- Consider how the name could be shortened.
- Consider how popular the name currently is.
- Think about people to name baby after.
- Think about names from your culture.
- Consider how it sits with any sibling names.
- Consider whether gender neutral names are important.
- Think about middle names—second or third favorites can still make the cut this way.
- Consider how the name works for a child and an adult.
- Consider alternative spellings of popular names.
- Think about living with the name. Will other kids be mean about it?
- Once you’ve got a few ideas on the shortlist, another fun task you could start thinking about is getting baby's nursery ready. See our checklist for help.