What’s the scoop on Jacob, the most popular boy’s name in the US for 2006?
Jacob provides a promising name choice for a baby boy who will be growing up in a very traditional family setting. Although you can’t count on every Jacob to cooperate with his name influence by adopting a very conventional set of beliefs, the odds are good for such to happen. This is also a super choice if you see your son becoming a superior software developer ala Bill Gates or a world famous brain surgeon. That’s because this name really nudges a boy toward mechanics and fine, intricate detail. Of course, if your young man opts to be a Jake instead of a Jacob, forget the detail. You’ll have a generous giver on your hands, someone who is always emptying his own pockets to help those in need.

What’s the scoop on Emily, the most popular girl’s name in the US for 2006?
Don’t consider the name Emily for your daughter if you feel little girls should be seen and not heard. Emily is a name that says, “be a pioneer, and go down new paths!” A child with this name may start out very early doing it her way… escaping from her crib in the wee morning hours to check out the neighbor’s sandbox… or telling grandma exactly what she thinks of her new haircut. Emilys may love their dolls and dresses but they will surely find ways to be original in their own right. Generally too, Emilys will be more interested in exploring every inch of the world at hand... over sitting and reading storybooks on mom’s or dad’s lap.

What’s the scoop on names that encourage hyperactivity?
There are many names that provide extra doses of emotional adrenaline. If you don’t have the energy to chase your child through the shopping mall… or if you already have a frazzled set of nerves, stay clear of these names! Just a few adrenaline-activated names include: Jason, Emma, Jeff, Jenny, Kevin, Lisa, Tommy, Nelly, Brent, Skyler, River, Meg and Kyle. (Use the BNC Naming Lab to determine the hyperactivity potential of any first name.)

What’s the scoop on names that boost sports ability?
If you are intent on having your child do well in sports, look for a name that supports physical development, and a love of tangible achievement. There’s no guarantee your child will cooperate with the active quality of such names, but chances are above average they will. Once one of these names is in place, it will be your responsibility to expose your child to the experiences and mentors who can help with skill and interest development. Here are just a few physically oriented first names: Peter, Lisa, Steven, Hannah, Patrick, Erin, Greg, Becky, Spencer, Trista, Brian, Jennifer, Andy and Sam.

What’s the scoop on nicknames that are only initials, as in JK Rowling or KT Tunstall?
Might using my child’s initials bring the same kind of success realized by JK and KT? I don’t advise using an “initial” first name where vowels are totally absent. The energetic aspect of a name goes flat when there are no vowels to carry the name’s life force. Both JK and KT are using their initials to support their professional image, going by Jo and Kate in everyday life. Give your baby an identity that has the benefits of a “stereo” vibration. Viva the vowels!