Should I give my kids Muslim names after I convert?

No, you don't have to rename them, though a Muslim name for a new baby is a lovely choice. Change an existing child's name only if it has a bad meaning or implies worshipping someone other than Allah. For older kids, let them take part in the decision, and consider adding a Muslim name rather than replacing the old one.

What Islam actually asks

There's no instruction to rename a child just because a parent became Muslim. The Prophet ﷺ changed names that had a bad meaning, such as 'Asiya, "disobedient", which he changed to Jamila, "beautiful" (Sahih Muslim 2139). He didn't ask people with ordinary names to change them. He did encourage choosing good names, and said that we'll be called by our names on the Day of Resurrection (Sunan Abi Dawud 4948).

So the rule of thumb is simple: keep a good name, change a bad one, and choose a Muslim name for any new baby if you'd like to. For the details, see Do I have to change my name after becoming Muslim?

For babies born after you convert

Choosing a name with a good meaning, from Islamic tradition or from any culture, is the best start. Many converts give a Muslim first name and keep the family surname, or combine a Muslim name with a name that honours a grandparent. Talk it through with your spouse early, and with your own parents if you'd like their support.

For children you already have

Under about 5: a name change is easy, but your child may already feel attached to the name. There's no need to hurry.
School age: a new name affects friends, teachers and paperwork. Talk to your child honestly and let them have a say.
Teenagers: they should decide for themselves. Forcing a new name can feel like rejection.

A gentle option is to add a Muslim middle name, or let your child use a Muslim "mosque name" when they go to Islamic classes. They can then decide as they grow up. If your child does want to change their name at school, see Can I ask my school to use my new Muslim name?

Other parent and family

If your children's other parent isn't Muslim, they have an equal say in names, and surprising them with a renaming can cause hurt. Agree on a plan first. Grandparents may also feel the old name connects the child to the family, so explain that you aren't rejecting them. A middle name can honour both sides.

The legal side

Changing a child's name legally usually needs the consent of both parents or a court order, and takes time and money. Many families avoid this by using a "known as" name informally. If you do want to change it officially, see How do I legally change my name to a Muslim name? The steps are similar for children, with extra consent rules that depend on your country.

Key points

Renaming existing children isn't required.
Change only names with a bad meaning or ones implying worship of others.
Choose a Muslim name for new babies if you like.
Involve older children and the other parent in the decision.

Tip: Adding a Muslim middle name is a low-pressure compromise. Nothing is lost, and your child can use it later if they wish.