Most parents start by picking from a list of their favorite names, or sometimes whatever pops into their minds. Celebrities and people in the media often provide name ideas. Consider how many have the name Elvis now, compared to decades ago. Names are almost always chosen because of a person that the parents admire, whether it's a friend, relative or celebrity.

Here are some important factors to consider when narrowing down the list of names for your dhild:

1. Uniqueness of the name. It is nice to have something different, but not too unique. My son has a half dozen friends named Ryan, obviously a popular name in the 90's! If the name is too unique or unusual, it may be difficult to pronounce.

2. The initials. Pay attention to your future child's initials, with and without middle names. Odd initials can cause them to be the butt of endless jokes. While the name Andrew Steven Smith may sound OK to you, young Andrew will never live it down! Same with my friend Bill Schaeffer, who always suffered from credibility issues!

3. What does the name mean? There are a lot of books and websites dedicated to the meaning of names. My son David ("beloved") certainly lives up to it's meaning. Some people choose their childrens names based on hopes for them, as in "Hope", but what kind of expectation are you setting by naing your child "Chastity"?

4. Think twice before you give them a name that will limit their future potential. While the name Tiffany is a beautiful name, how many CEO's have that moniker?

5. If you have a common sirname, consider a more unusual first name. If your name is Smith, it will help your child to not make them a John, Bill, or Mary.

6. Consider nicknames and common shortenings of names. People will use these whether you or your child like them or not.

7. Are you a teacher, or do you work with children on a regular basis? Good luck! It will be very difficult to find a name for your child that doesn't remind you of a student you once had. You know, what used to be your favorite name, now all you can think about is that troublemaker that was always being sent to the principals office!

After considering the above, it comes down to a decisin you make, about how you want your child named, and what appeals the most to you!