Now that fewer babies and young children are being christened in a traditional church ceremony, naming ceremonies have become popular as a non-religious alternative.

Why have a naming ceremony?

· A naming ceremony is an opportunity to introduce your new arrival to family and friends

· It can also be used to welcome a step-child or adopted child into your whānau

· It is a way of acknowledging that it takes a village to raise a child, and the people you invite are your ‘village’

· It affirms the new phase of life you are entering after the long months of pregnancy and the excitement and challenge of birthing.

What happens in a naming ceremony?

There are no prescribed rules or rituals. What you do is entirely up to you. You can organise and conduct it yourself, or you can ask a celebrant to conduct it for you. Using a celebrant will allow you to relax and enjoy the occasion, and you can tap into their experience of ceremonies and rituals to make for a really special occasion.

Some options you may wish to include:

· plant a tree or shrub

· create a memory book for people to write messages

· light a candle

· include a poem or reading

· explain the significance of the name you have chosen

· invite a guest to be your child’s ‘guide-parent’

· welcome your new arrival with music or a song

· share your promises to your child of your commitment to them and their future

· engage a photographer to record this special event

Do I have to use a registered celebrant?

No, you don’t. As there are no legal requirements for a naming ceremony, anyone can conduct one, but most people choose to have a celebrant to write and arrange the ceremony and lead the proceedings on the day.