8 Jan 2009

Classic names preferred in 2008

3:04 pm on 8 January 2009

The list of most popular baby names for 2008 shows parents are sticking with the tried and true. Few new names made the list of 30.

The top name for boys was Jack, for the fourth consecutive year, while Sophie was the top name for girls, up from second place last year.

Olivia and Ella round out the top three places for girls, while James and William were second and third for boys.

Psychologist Sara Chatwin says the list reflects the perennial favourites of parents, who tend to prefer plain, simple names.

She says parents often choose the names of people they know and like, while celebrity names can also influence their selection.