As
parents, we want the best for our children, and one aspect that often receives a lot of attention is their names. However, sometimes despite our best efforts to choose the perfect name, things might not go as planned. If your child has an English name that isn’t well-received or doesn’t have a good meaning, what can you do? Firstly, it’s important to remember that while names are important, they do not define who someone is as a person. A name may have negative associations, but it doesn’t mean that the child is any less valuable or capable. It’s important to focus on building up their confidence in who they are, rather than solely relying on their name to validate their worth. If your child’s name is a source of discomfort for them, you can consider changing it. This may be a difficult decision, and it’s important to approach it with sensitivity and understanding. Involve your child in the process and explain why you are considering a name change. Brainstorm new names together and provide them with a few options to choose from. Ensure that the new name is meaningful and significant to them. If changing the name isn’t an option, there are ways to make it more palatable. Shortening or altering the name slightly, or providing a nickname, can give your child a sense of ownership over their name. Similarly, explaining the meaning of the name or focusing on a positive aspect of it can help to shift perceptions. It’s also worth considering the potential impact of a name in different contexts. While a certain name may not be well-received in one culture, it may be perfectly fine in another. Similarly, if your child’s name is difficult to pronounce, provide phonetic spellings or a simplified version to assist others. Ultimately, it’s important to remember that your child’s name is just one aspect of who they are. Building their self-esteem and nurturing their interests and abilities are equally, if not more, important factors in shaping their future. While a negative perception of their name can be challenging, it does not define their worth or potential.