Question
What are Hilary Erickson's criteria for selecting baby names?
Answer
When I select baby names, I consider a few factors:
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Kindergarten Readiness: I think about how easy the name will be for a child to spell in kindergarten. I also consider if a teacher will be able to pronounce it easily without a guide.
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Unique Spellings: I've noticed a lot of unique spellings out there. However, as someone whose name is often misspelled, I know it can be awkward. So, I tend to lean towards traditional spellings.
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The Yell Test: I also consider how the name sounds when yelled out loud. This is sometimes called the "front porch test". It's important to me that the name sounds good when called out, whether in anger or joy.
Remember, a name is a tiny part of a very long journey. It's important to choose one that will suit your child at every stage of their life.