There are many different approaches to finding the right name for your baby. But when it comes to picking out the perfect name, here's a common thread: You don't want your son or daughter to be teased because of it. Granted, every name has the potential for teasing. There is always that one kid in class who can find a way to make fun of any name out there. But it's also true that some names are simply higher on the teasing probability chart. Keeping a few facts in mind may help reduce the chance that your kids will endure this kind of name-calling.


Dang that slang
Because the English language is always changing, new meanings for old words pop up all the time. Names are no different. So parents need to keep in mind that old family names, names that they've always liked, or names that were popular in the past might have whole new meanings now-meanings that might make the names a target for teasing. The following names are known to have a few different connotations, and can definitely be considered dangerous due to their double meanings.

* Butch
* Cherry
* Colin
* Dick
* Fanny
* Gay
* Harry
* John
* Mary Jane
* Pat
* Patsy
* Peter
* Ralph
* Randy
* Rod
* Willy
* Woody

Just plain weird
Double meanings and slang can make some names almost off-limits. Unique names can be a catalyst for teasing as well. Many parents have the best intentions when they give their child a completely one-of-a-kind name. They want their child's name to stand out from the crowd. Sometimes, though, the name is so unusual that the child not only stands out, but other kids think they're way out in left field.

Today, almost any word seems to be fair game when it comes to baby names. Food, cars, months, colors, animals, states ... these have all been sources of baby names in recent years. Traditional names are getting whole new spellings. Baby names are becoming three-, four-, and five-names long. New names-even brand new words-are being crafted every day by creative parents. Parents just need to keep in mind that what they view as creative today may be viewed as just plain weird tomorrow, and their children will have to live with it.

Teasing kids because of their name is nothing new. No matter how hard parents try, there's a good chance that at some point in their children's lives, someone will poke, prod, or tease them about their name. But parents should not be afraid to give their child a name they love-regardless of the teasing factor-as long as they feel confident that their child will love it one day, too.