What is a Naming Ceremony?

A “Naming Ceremony” is your special day when your child is acknowledged and welcomed into the family and wider community. It is a non-religious ceremony in place of a more traditional baptism or christening. In most cases, naming ceremonies are held for young children in the first year of their life, or shortly thereafter but there are also other situations where you might choose to have a naming ceremony.

Babies Don’t Keep

I hope your children
Look back on today
And see parents
Who had time to play

There will be years
For cleaning and cooking
But children grow up
While we are not looking

Dusting and scrubbing
Can wait till tomorrow
For babies grow fast
We learn to our sorrow

So quiet down cobwebs
And dust – go to sleep
Just rock your babies
Cause babies don’t keep

A “Naming Ceremony” is your special day when your child is acknowledged and welcomed into the family and wider community. It is a non-religious ceremony in place of a more traditional baptism or christening. In most cases, naming ceremonies are held for young children in the first year of their life, or shortly thereafter but there are also other situations where you might choose to have a naming ceremony.

• Small children.

• Multiple namings, eg for siblings, cousins or close friends.

• Step children within a marriage ceremony, symbolizing family unity by taking on the name of a step parent.

• Adolescents or adults who never had any form of naming ceremony when younger

• Adolescents or adults who choose to revoke a given name, and to be known as another.

• A new separated or divorced woman who chooses to revert to a birth name, or to be known by yet another name.

Why Have A Naming Ceremony?

The giving of a name is an important rite in any society. A name is also considered to reflect personality. It constitutes a welcome to our children. It is recognition of our transition to parenthood, acknowledging the presence of our off-spring and their impact on our lives. It is a sharing with our close friends and family, and it is the occasion when we bestow the chosen names upon those children. It is a completion of the birthing process and the start of the next stage of development.

The Naming Day

Naming celebrations are generally informal and casual affairs, which is just common sense given that it is an occasion that is usually attended by many small children. They are sometimes hosted in parks or a family home, though occasionally at a small function center or restaurant instead.

Using the family home (or that of a relative or friend) means that kitchens, toilets, bedrooms and changes of clothes are easily on hand. It is a familiar and usually safe environment, and is more easily controlled, particularly in case of adverse weather.

Besides naming and welcoming the newcomer, Naming Ceremonies are a great way to foster community and family spirit with your friends and family. It can be a rewarding experience for all involved.

Whether you wish to have a large or small gathering, formal or inform, I will listen to what you want, make suggestions and offer advice for the special day. I have a large selection of poems and verses and many creative ideas to ensure that your child’s Naming Day will be unique and memorable.