A positive pregnancy test brings on many thoughts, one of which will have you creating lists of possible baby names for boys and girls. Which of the thousands of baby names will you call your new child? Will you pick a popular moniker or one of the more traditional baby names? Choosing baby names is tough (some moms think the length of time it can take to settle on baby names is the real reason pregnancy takes nine months!). The baby names you choose will identify your child for life, so take time to find baby names you really love. A lot of parents who decide on baby names ahead of time find themselves changing those baby names once the child arrives.

Inspiration for meaningful baby names is everywhere. Baby names can be selected from the family tree or friends, from saints or other religious figures, from baby names you might read about or see on television, from other languages, or even from commercial names! There are thousands of baby names resources, which list boy and girl baby names alphabetically and include the background and meaning of different baby names.

The search for the perfect baby names can be focused if you know the sex of your baby. If not, make a double-columned potential baby names list, with one side reserved for girl baby names, and the other for boy baby names. Start by adding baby names you have always liked, and then add other baby names you come across in books or other baby names resources. Continue adding new baby names as your pregnancy progresses, remembering that baby names are often two part: a given name and one or more additional 'middle' baby names. Say aloud each of the baby names you've written down, and include the baby's family name. Sometimes the baby names you like sound great on their own but don't fit well with your baby's last name.

Many governments, including those in Canada and the U.S.A. have compiled historical lists of the most popular baby names by year. These baby names lists can help you determine the uniqueness of the baby names you are considering. Some governments, such as that of Germany, also have rules regarding the appropriateness of certain baby names, so take a moment to check with authorities if the baby names you are choosing are especially unusual or if the baby names contradict known policies.