1. Think of the fit

Unless you want your kid to grow up to have a one-word name like Prince, Cher or Ke$ha, his name will have to work with the family name. Does it create an awkward combination? Do the initials form a well-known acronym? Can the name be shortened?

2. Sound

How does it sound out loud? Can you say it clearly without your tongue stumbling over it? You'll also have to shout the name out at some point. Comedian Bill Cosby once said: "Always end the name of your child with a vowel, so that when you yell the name will carry."

3. Make it easy for all

If you want to go for an outlandish name or maybe an antiquated name, great for you. But is it easy enough for your kid to learn? If it's syllable-loaded or full of silent letters, then your child has to learn how to spell it correctly.

4. Can your child live with it?

Will your child like his name? Is there a potential for teasing? And don't forget, choosing a name that's cute for a child may not work as they grow up. And while you can be daring and creative, have a think about how it will appear on a passport or CV.

5. Wait before announcing

It may be best to wait before revealing the name to the world. It will save you from a deluge of opinions. Choose the moment, announce the name and whether they like it or not, they'll have to get used to it.

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