Next to wearing a towel on our heads and saying pretend, “I do,” coming up with baby names, for most girls, is a favorite childhood pastime. And now that we are all grown up and the babies are real (not plastic), choosing your child’s name is one of the first of a million decisions we’ll have to make for them.

Choosing a name isn’t easy. Once you disclose your favorites, anyone and everyone will have an opinion. Pouring through books can alternately help and confuse the issue. Remember • it isn’t up to your Aunt Martha or Grandpa Joe -- your child’s name is up to you and your partner alone.

Here are some helpful hints in choosing a baby name:

Consider the full name

Say it out loud. Does it rhyme with your last name? Sound like one word when combined with your last name?  How does it sound? Coming up with a name that flows off the tongue might take effort, but your kid will thank you for it.

What does it mean?

When trying to decide between a few names, sometimes finding out the meaning of a name can help narrow the selection process down.

Does it work through time?

Does your favorite name stand the test of time? Will it work at 5 as it does as 50? Considering the longevity of your favorite names might help eliminate a few options.

Will your kid be a target?

Kids can be cruel, so think of all the angles and try and pick a name that will spare your child grief. Sure, names like Apple (Gwyneth Paltrow) and Pilot Inspektor (Jason Lee) are cool in Hollywood and if you are partial to those names, by all means have at it. But your child will thank you if you consider its impact on the playground • and on the marquee.

Ethnicity

Giving your child a name that pays homage to your ethnic background can provide some nice, unique options. If it’s your family tradition to name your child after a relative but you like a name that doesn’t qualify, consider using it as a middle name.

Hopefully these tips will help your decision making process along. After all, your baby’s name will represent the twinkle in their little eyes, their legacy and most importantly • your love.

PS: According to the August 21 issue of People magazine, actress and mom Mary Louise Parker swears by her Cuisinart when making her own baby food!