As an adult, just think how many times during an average week you give and spell your name. Do you want to give your child a name that he or she could really resent later?

If you absolutely love a name, but can’t tolerate nickname that often goes with it, then think twice.

For example, I have a friend who named her son Michael, even though she hates nickname, ‘Mikey’. Now mom spends far too much time and energy correcting kids, teachers and other parents who refer to him by dreaded nickname. It’s just not worth it.

HAVE SOME BACK-UP CHOICES Since ultrasound tests are not always interpreted correctly, All About Baby recommends choosing names for both sexes. Even when you think gender is a certainty, it is still a good idea to have a back up name. Why? Sometimes name that seemed perfect during your pregnancy just isn’t right match when new baby finally arrives.

This actually happened to another mom that I know, who was having her second son, a boy. They learned sex of baby during pregnancy and planned for months to name their new son, Cameron Michael.

However, when I visited their home a few days after baby's birth, I learned parents had named him Matthew John. His mother’s explanation was that after his birth, they all realized ‘he just didn’t look like a Cameron.' And you know, she was right, he looked like a Matthew John!

PICK THE NAME THAT IS RIGHT FOR YOUR CHILD Everyone seems to have an opinion when it comes to baby names, and family members can be especially outspoken. While it’s fun to hear suggestions, especially during first part of your name search, keep in mind that ultimately your child’s name is your decision. It is impossible to make everyone happy.

Naming your infant is one of most important tasks you will ever undertake. A person’s name is truly a lifetime gift, and it helps define your child -- within family, to friends, at school and to outside world. If you consider options carefully and select with love, you really can’t go wrong.

For a complete list of 20 Helpful Baby-Naming Tips as well as a wide variety of other interesting child-related content, visit http://www.allbaby.com.

5. Become an attentive listener. Multitasking may be necessary at work, however it will make you appear distracted when discussing something important with your teenager. Learn to focus.

6. Ask right questions without appearing to interrogate them. It is important that they not fear coming to you to discuss what is important to them. It is equally important that they feel that you will take time to understand what they are trying to communicate.

7. Do not judge them for their actions or ever say, “I told you so! This helps in having them continue to come to you to discuss topics, and encourages them to do things better next time.

8. When helping your teenager with problem solving, discuss desired outcomes first, and what they need to do to resolve their problem. Then allow them to proactively make their own decisions based upon facts rather than reacting to their emotions.

9. Set guidelines instead of making rules for your teens to follow. They should have input into guidelines, and then be expected to follow them. They will perceive this as fair and in their best interests.

10. “Hang out” together as oppose to just spending time together. Remember that there is a difference between motion and productivity, so make your time together interactive. For example, if you go to a movie, then go for an ice cream and discuss movie. Or play some “one on one” games or sports. Do what best friends do!

If you want to be a better parent, don’t forget child within you. All too often, we get so wrapped up in being an adult that we forget how to have fun and enjoy life. I found that by using my imagination, I rekindled my creativity, and this made me an “okay guy” for my teenagers to hang out with.

Copyright 2004 by V. Michael Santoro and Jennifer S. Santoro, All Rights Reserved