Kids can be ruthless to each other. They know exactly where each others’ weak spots are. If it happens to be a name, bullies won’t hesitate to use it as ammunition to heckle, tease or worse. A child who is treated in this manner may withdraw into his own world, provoking an unfavorable response from his or her peer group. Children who are insecure by nature and have a hard time standing their ground are especially likely to become
a target for bullies. It’s often a combination of several factors that make kids turn into outcasts. Imagine that your name is Wilma (“Hey, it’s Wilma Flintstone!”) or Lassie (“Fetch, Lassie, fetch!”).
Our advice: For each name you’re considering, ask yourself whether or not it could be used by bullies at
school. What does the name sound like and what does it rhyme with that can be used to tease
your child? If a name is practically asking to be abused, don’t do it. In that case, it’s best to pick
another name. On the other hand, almost any name can be made fun of by those who want to,
so excess caution, but don’t let this be the sole deciding factor.
Why Felix?
“During school I was always called ‘Felix the Cat’ by most
of my classmates. I remember one day in particular,
when some rude boys were ‘meowing’ at me
as I passed by. I was an assertive kid and in
reaction to them, I barked as loud as I could.
I scared the hell out of everybody!
If a way to tease is very obvious, other kids
will most likely come up with it and use it.
Almost every name can be made
fun of, but take it from me- try to
avoid names with obvious ways to
make fun of them.”
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For each name you’re considering, ask yourself whether or not it could be used by bullies at
school. What does the name sound like and what does it rhyme with that can be used to tease
your child? If a name is practically asking to be abused, don’t do it. In that case, it’s best to pick
another name. On the other hand, almost any name can be made fun of by those who want to,
so excess caution, but don’t let this be the sole deciding factor.
Why Felix?
