Once you find out that your are pregnant you will probably spend the next nine months trying to decide on a name for your baby. It is possibly the first decision you make for your child that could impact on them for the rest of their lives. There are several things that you should consider when choosing a name.

Try to balance the first name with the surname. If the surname has two or more syllables it is a good idea to have a single syllable first name or a multi-syllable first name with a single syllable last name.

Say the names out loud several times to see how it sounds and if it is easy to say. Ensure that the two names together do not make up a word, also say out loud the initial of the first name with the last name. You do not want P Nuss or Anne Teak called out at roll call. At the same time make sure the first, middle and last name initials do not spell an unwanted word.

If you choose a name that is currently popular the chances are there will be several other children in the same class at school with the same name. You need to consider if this will cause you or your child any distress by not having a name that is individual.

Try to avoid unusual spelling of a name, if their name is Elizabeth and you decide to spell it Elisabeth they will probably spend the rest of their lives telling people how to spell their name correctly.

How will the name be shortened? Make sure that you like all variations on the name as it is very much an Australian tradition to shorten names. If you call your child Elizabeth she may get called Liz, Beth or Lizzy.

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