Readings and Poems for a Naming Day Ceremony — Ideas to Inspire
A naming day ceremony is one of the most joyful events a family can host. It’s a chance to welcome a child, share hopes for their future, and celebrate love and connection. And one of the best ways to make it truly personal is by including a reading or poem.
But where do you start? Don’t worry—I’ve pulled together a wide range of naming day readings and poems to suit every style: heartfelt, light-hearted, traditional, or modern.
1. Heartfelt & Classic Readings
These timeless words never fail to move:
On Children by Kahlil Gibran
Lullaby by W. H. Auden
A Prayer for a Child by Tina Fey (beautifully funny and touching)
Excerpt from The Prophet (on family and belonging)
A Parent’s Wish by Unknown
2. Fun & Playful Readings
Perfect for families who want to keep things light-hearted and joyful.
“Us Two” by A. A. Milne (from Winnie the Pooh)
“Oh, The Places You’ll Go!” by Dr Seuss
“Guess How Much I Love You” by Sam McBratney
“A Lovely Love Story” by Edward Monkton (whimsical dinosaur tale)
Short rhymes or nursery verses adapted for the child
3. Poems About Family & Love
Poetry has a way of capturing the heart of a naming day:
To My Child by Ogden Nash
Walking With Grandfather (Native American proverb, adapted with respect)
Children Learn What They Live by Dorothy Law Nolte
What Is a Family? by Unknown
You Are the Start of Something New by Unknown
4. Spiritual & Cultural Readings
If you’d like to honour cultural or spiritual traditions, these can add depth:
Irish Blessing for Children (“May strong arms hold you…”)
Maori proverb He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata (“What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people, it is people.”)
Apache Blessing (adapted for children)
Buddhist meditations on compassion and kindness
5. Quotes & Short Readings
Sometimes simple words say the most:
“Every child begins the world anew.” — Henry David Thoreau
“A new baby is like the beginning of all things—wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities.” — Eda J. LeShan
“Children are not things to be moulded, but people to be unfolded.” — Jess Lair
“It takes a village to raise a child.” — African proverb
Lines from songs or films with special meaning (yes, even You Are My Sunshine).
Tips for Choosing the Right Reading
Keep it personal — Choose words that feel authentic to your family, not just “what’s expected.”
Think about the reader — Whether it’s a parent, grandparent, or friend, the right voice can bring the words to life.
Mix and match — A short, fun poem paired with a heartfelt reading creates a lovely balance.
As a naming day celebrant, I help families weave readings and poems into the ceremony so they feel seamless and meaningful. The right words will not only celebrate the child but also create memories for everyone gathered.
Planning a Naming Day?
If you’re here, you’re probably celebrating a brand-new little one (congratulations!) A naming day is a simple, meaningful way to welcome your child and bring family and friends together. As a celebrant, I can help you shape a ceremony that feels natural, personal, and true to you—without the fuss..