Prince William and Kate Middleton are committed to giving their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, as normal an upbringing as possible, which includes maintaining a consistent bedtime routine.
Despite their royal duties, the couple prioritizes being hands-on parents, often rearranging their schedules to ensure they can do the school run and be home to read bedtime stories. Their Norland nanny, Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo, has been with the family since 2014, but she no longer lives with them, allowing for a more typical family environment.
William has shared insights into their bedtime routine, revealing that they often read the classic children’s book “Room on the Broom” by Julia Donaldson. This practice underscores the importance of routine and storytelling in their household. William and Kate’s commitment to these nightly rituals reflects their dedication to their children’s well-being and normalcy, despite the pressures of royal life.
During a visit to Wales in 2020, William shared with Adrian Hughes, the managing director of Joe’s Ice Cream Parlour, that he frequently reads “Room on the Broom” to his children. This anecdote highlights William’s personal involvement in his children’s bedtime routine. He also mentioned meeting Julia Donaldson when she received her CBE in 2018, humorously thanking her for “saving” many parents at bedtime with her engaging stories.
In addition to their bedtime routine, Kate has given insights into their morning schedule. During a visit to Stockwell Gardens Nursery and Pre-school in London, she discussed her children’s breakfast preferences, mentioning that they enjoy apples and cereal. This conversation with the schoolchildren provided a glimpse into the normalcy of the royal family’s daily life.
Music also plays a significant role in their morning routine. William has revealed that there is often a “massive fight” between George and Charlotte over which song to play, leading to a rotational system to keep the peace. This detail illustrates the typical sibling dynamics within the royal household, showcasing that even royal children have their share of everyday disputes.
Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo, the family’s Norland nanny, has been a crucial support for William and Kate. Since joining the family when George was eight months old, Maria has helped care for all three children. Her training at the prestigious Norland College ensures she is well-equipped to handle the unique challenges of raising royal children. Despite her presence, William and Kate strive to be as involved as possible in their children’s lives, emphasizing their desire to create a nurturing and grounded environment.
The Wales family’s approach to parenting reflects a blend of royal tradition and modern values. By focusing on routine, personal involvement, and normalcy, William and Kate are setting a foundation for their children that balances their royal heritage with a grounded upbringing. Their dedication to their children’s well-being, both in terms of education and daily routines, is evident in the way they manage their household and navigate their public and private lives.