Becoming a grandparent no longer means being automatically called “Grandma” or “Grandpa.” Today’s grandparents are increasingly choosing more unique and personalized grandparent names — ones that reflect their personality or style.
From the popular “Gigi” and “Mimi” for grandmothers to playful nicknames like “Coach” or “Boss” for grandfathers, grandparents are opting for names that match how they see themselves in their new role.
“It becomes this big identity choice, which at a time in life when you’re usually not remaking your identity,” says Sophie Kihm, editor-in-chief at Nameberry.com. “So, I think that’s part of the fun, too. You know who you are by the time you’re a grandparent, and now you get to pick this grandma or grandpa name that really fits who you want to be as a grandparent.”
Choosing your grandparent name can be a fun, family affair and be a meaningful way to prepare for this new chapter together. Kihm encourages grandparents and parents-to-be to have an open conversation about the name selection and offers a few tips to help guide the process.
–Avoid Confusion: Try not to pick a name too similar to the baby’s name or to the names the parents might want to use for future siblings.
–Coordinate With Co-Grandparents: Consider the names the other set of grandparents will be using. Having two “Nanas”or “Poppys” in the family might create confusion.
–Keep It Baby-Friendly: Some sounds are easier for babies to pronounce, especially ones with lots of vowels or soft consonants like B, M, P, D, T, N, and G. Think “Nana,” “Baba,” “Gaga” or “Papa.”
Even the best-laid grandparent-naming plans can be undone by one tiny, babbling voice. And that’s OK!
“Sometimes you are named by your grandchild. If they can’t pronounce certain things, they might use a different pronunciation, they might use a different name and that just sticks,” Kihm says. “So, I think some amount of flexibility is really key here.”
Those spontaneous, toddler-coined names are often the most cherished. They reflect the unique bond between grandparent and grandchild.
“My son, Carson, started calling my dad ‘Papa’ when he learned to talk,” says Marissa Rapsik, of Aurora. “We were surprised because no one in our family used the term previously, but after he said it, it stuck, and we’ve been using it ever since. My dad loves it because it sets him apart and is a special connection to his little boys.”
