A naming ceremony can be used to celebrate many occasions - from the birth of a child to the christening of a boat or the opening of a new library.

A naming ceremony for a young child is a non-religious service, similar to that of a baptism, shared with your family and friends to welcome a child into your lives. It gives people an opportunity to offer their support to your child's future development. It is a happy experience that can include your relativers and friedns and often has readings or music, chosen especially for the occasion.

These ceremonies give us an opportunity to recognise the important role we each have in the encouragement and protection of the children that we spend time with.

A naming ceremony can be a very special way of celebrating your child's birth and welcoming the new arrival into the family. It can also give you the opportunity to declare, before family and friends, your promise to strive to be the best parent that you can. Your adult friends or relatives can also pledge their special relationship with your child.