The Crib: A Blog for New Parents

Posted by pecuellar on 09/19/08 - 02:57 AM

With the expansion of untraditional name choices, it will be sure to happen to you at some point. Your sister, best friend or other loved one has come up with the perfect name for their expected bundle. However, you are convinced that the pregnancy hormones or an overactive imagination has overwhelmed their previous good judgment. Therefore, they could not seriously want to name their child Honey Moon Raine Shine or Prince Bubb Perfecto.

“Don’t you just love it?” The question leaves you paralyzed, like a deer in the headlights. Should you laugh? Obviously, this must be a joke. But if she is serious, this could hurt her feelings and your relationship. Do you politely smile and nod while your insides wail “Don’t do it!”?

The answer may be a little of both. Try to gently address the question. You might ask “Have you considered any other names?” or “That might be a mouthful for kindergarten?” Rather than coming right out and declaring your hate for the name, the situation would be better served if you explained the reasons why you don’t like it. The name is too long, too difficult to pronounce or has a terrible nickname.

Disclaimer: Ignore all of the above if the child has already arrived and been saddled with a name you dislike. In this case, just smile and know that regardless of their name, you will love this child and when this bundle makes a spot in your heart it will never matter what name they have been assigned.