When it comes to children, every mother has her own parenting style. But what about those in the British monarchy? Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle may have both married into the Royal Family, but their views on parenting couldn't be more different. While Kate has taken a more traditional approach to raising her kids, sticking to royal protocols, Meghan embraces her American and laidback culture. Keep reading to find out how these members of the royal family take on motherhood.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Dress Their Kids in Donations
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex may no longer be referred to as Their Royal Highness, and it seems they have no problem with that! When it comes to the traditional values of the monarchy, they follow their own paths. And they carry that sentiment in their parenting styles as well. When dressing their children, they do the unthinkable. Harry and Meghan don't mind putting little Archie or Lilibet in clothes from H&M, something most avid royal family fans would find hard to believe.
They often dress their kids in free gifts they receive and even donate them after to clothing charities, But would Kate do the same?
Kate Dresses Her Kids in Expensive Designer Clothes
Kate prefers to dress herself and her kids in designer clothes. And who could be surprised? She is royalty, after all! Rather than opting for common brands or hand-me-downs, her kids get only the best. She tends to dress them in posh and modest clothing, despite their ages, rather than fun clothes. Even though the price tag of their clothes is hefty, as soon as the public sees what they're wearing, their outfits usually sell out!
Kate's children would never be caught dressed in anything that wasn't fit for royalty. Something Meghan and Harry probably have strong opinions on!
Meghan Hired a Guru to Walk Her Through Pregnancy
Meghan Markle took a unique approach to her second pregnancy by enlisting the guidance of renowned pregnancy guru Dr. Gowri Motha. Despite being based in London, Dr. Motha provided remote support to Meghan throughout her pregnancy and labor. Notably, Dr. Motha's services have been sought after by high-profile figures like Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow. Meghan's decision to work with Dr. Motha aligns with her parenting style and commitment to practices like yoga, influenced by her mother's expertise as an instructor.
When it comes to pregnancy and motherhood, Meghan Markle is all about embracing the modern and trying out new approaches. On the other hand, Kate Middleton takes a more traditional route. Rooted in royal customs and traditions, she keeps things classic.
Meghan's Mom Helps Take Care of Her Kids
If you are a part of the Royal Family, you must have access to the best of the best! So when it comes to nannies and childcare, we could assume that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle leave their children in good hands. But they've opted for something far less traditional. Rather than hiring a specialized nanny, they rely on Meghan's mom for help! It was even reported that Doria moved in with them to help with the kids.
Although it's not uncommon to have your own mother help take care of her grandchildren, it's quite humble for a couple who formerly lived on royal grounds.
The Nanny That Takes Care of Princes and Princesses
Kate has opened up about how motherhood is challenging yet rewarding, but even she needs some help occasionally. Maria Borrallo is the lucky caretaker of William and Kate's three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Of course, they can't just have any ordinary person watching their children, the very kids destined to take over the monarch in the future! They've trusted her with their kids for almost a decade.
Maria Borrallo is educated and trained in childcare! Of course, the future king and queen couldn't have someone unqualified for this prestigious role.
Kate's Kids Are Set for Prestigious Education
The young Cambridge crew, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, are currently rocking their school days at Thomas's Battersea Day School in Southwest London. But folks can't help but wonder where they'll head next for their education. One popular option on the table is the prestigious Eton College, where their dad, Prince William, and Uncle Harry went to school back in the day. Just down the road is St. Mary's School, where Princess Charlotte might join.
As it is customary for royal children to transition to boarding school as they grow older, people anticipate they will undoubtedly be getting a distinguished education.
Archie and Lilibet Will Be Attending Regular Schools in California
The contrasting approaches to schooling between Kate Middleton and Prince William versus Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have become apparent, even at a young age. While Kate and William's children attend schools with a royal lineage, young Archie has embraced a regular nursery school experience in California. The specific name of Archie's preschool remains undisclosed, allowing him to lead a typical life. The other kids won't know they come from a royal background.
It appears that Archie and Lilibet are on track to receive a regular education in sunny California, away from the traditional royal schooling route.
Meghan Makes Sure Her Kids Eat Organic
Meghan Markle has a very different diet than Kate Middleton, considering she grew up in the United States, whereas Kate grew up in the UK. While Kate enjoys cooking for her kids and also enjoys the benefits of private chefs, Meghan and Harry like shopping and cooking for themselves. Meghan has opened up about preferring to eat organic foods and keeping a primarily vegan diet, and her children follow in her footsteps.
Meghan used to run a lifestyle blog about clean eating and recipes for healthy meals, so she will most likely continue those health practices with Archie and Lilibet.
Kate Likes to Cook With Her Children
One of the benefits that come with being royalty is having access to the best professional chefs. Whatever Kate and her children could possibly want to eat, they could have cooked for them in a second! But Kate actually enjoys cooking for her kids herself. She's taken some cooking classes and has shared that her kids like preparing food with her too. Apparently, they love making pasta and pizza for their mom.
Kate could choose to have a private chef cook for the kids, but she embraces motherhood in every aspect and loves preparing meals for children.
Kate Middleton Has No Problem Putting Her Kids in the Public Eye
It's no surprise that the royal family is used to constantly being in the public eye. But when Meghan Markle and Prince Harry decided to have kids, they went against traditions and decided to keep their kids hidden away from the public eye as much as possible. That's where Kate Middleton and Prince William are completely different in their parenting styles. They never shied away from the spotlight and have no problem with their kids in the media.
But how do Meghan and Harry feel about having their kids in the public eye, being so out in the open themselves?.
Meghan Markle Doesn't Like Her Kids to Be Seen in Public
Meghan and Harry are known for going against the grain and when it comes to parenting, they are no different in their approach. They have even gone as far as to go against royal protocols if it means keeping their kids sheltered from the public eye. Unlike Kate and William who proudly display their kids at various public royal events and allow their photos to be posted in the media.
Although Meghan and Harry seem to be much more modern and laidback with their parenting styles, they certainly don't want their kids in the spotlight.
Kate Insists Her Kids Go to Etiquette Training
From as early as two years old, royal children embark on a journey of learning and mastering various customs and formalities. This includes the art of curtsying and adhering to proper etiquette when engaging with others. Posture, handshakes, and appropriate conversation topics are all part of their comprehensive training. However, maintaining impeccable behavior can be challenging, as demonstrated by a candid moment captured when Prince Louis playfully teased Kate Middleton in public.
It seems the etiquette training may encounter occasional bumps along the way, but Kate is strict about keeping her kids on their best behavior, especially in the public eye.
Meghan Markle's American-Style Baby Shower Breaks Royal Tradition
When it comes to baby showers, there's a notable difference between American and British customs, even among the royal family. While American moms can't wait to celebrate their pregnancies with a shower, it's considered pretty uncommon in the UK. For royal moms-to-be, a fancy baby shower would be seen as totally inappropriate. Instead, they tend to receive gifts after the baby is born. But Meghan Markle, being the rule-breaker she is, decided to have an American-style baby shower.
Serena Williams threw her an extravagant bash that reportedly cost around $200,000, and some British folks raised eyebrows at the pricey celebration.
Kate Admits Motherhood Is Easier for Her Because Of Her Status
Recognizing the advantages that come with her privileged background, Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, acknowledges the easier path that parenting has been for her. Hailing from an upper-middle-class family and joining the British royal family through marriage, she openly admits the extensive assistance and access to childcare that many mothers do not have. She knows that if she is ever stressed, she'll have access to the best childcare in a second.
Kate doesn't shy away from the fact that her parenting journey comes with some major perks that most folks can only dream of! Buckle up and keep reading to dive into their captivating and oh-so-different approaches to raising their little royals.
Meghan Struggled With Mental Health While Pregnant
Meghan Markle has been refreshingly transparent about her journey with mental health, especially during the early stages of motherhood. She expressed her vulnerability while pregnant and the overwhelming nature of caring for a newborn. These struggles became even more apparent during her widely-discussed conversation with Oprah, where she shared her battle with dark thoughts and self-harm during those challenging times. Meghan's honesty shines a light on the often-unspoken difficulties many mothers face.
Meghan's pregnancy and birth were a whole different ballgame compared to Kate's. While Kate's journey was all about joy and anticipation, Meghan had quite a difficult experience.
Kate Uses a Baby Stroller Only Fit for Royalty
Kate Middleton set the royal standard when strolling her kids in the past with her choice of the Silver Cross Balmoral Pram. Priced at $3,999, this luxurious carriage has been captured in photographs as Kate effortlessly pushes young Princess Charlotte along. Considered the epitome of elegance, the Silver Cross Balmoral Pram is often described as the "Rolls Royce" of prams. While this vintage carriage may prioritize fashion and luxury over practicality, it's a fitting choice for a little Princess.
The prestigious Silver Cross brand has been a favorite of the royal family for over a century, with even the Queen being pushed in one during her baby years.
Meghan Markle Chose a Non-Traditional Baby Stroller
Breaking away from royal family tradition, Meghan Markle chose the Bugaboo Fox stroller for baby Archie instead of the customary Silver Cross pram. This practical and versatile carriage, priced at $1,500, was a generous gift from one of Meghan's friends during her pregnancy. Who knew a stroller choice could be so controversial? Well, considering the royal family customs are to use a certain kind of baby stroller, this move was quite the statement.
Meghan Markle continues to blaze her own parenting path, this time with a rebellious stroller choice. And it seems Meghan isn't the only one in on this secret royal rebellion, as even Pippa Middleton has it!
Kate Lets the Public in on Her Royal Children's Christenings
The christenings of Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis offered the media easy access to capture precious moments. All three children donned a replica of Queen Victoria's christening gown, adding a touch of tradition to the ceremonies. Kate was happy to carry out this royal custom and didn't bat an eye at the custom. Kate and William definitely embrace doing things the royal way and are very different from Harry and Meghan.
Recognizing the significance of these precious moments, they graciously invite the media to witness and capture the magic through photographs. Something Meghan and Harry are not so keen on.
Meghan Kept Her Children's Christening Much More Private
Archie Harrison's christening perfectly exemplified Meghan's preference for privacy regarding her children. Opting for an intimate ceremony at a secluded chapel in Windsor Castle, the couple limited the guest list to 25 close individuals. While the Queen was absent, notable members of the royal family, including King Charles, Prince William, and Kate, were in attendance. Going with Meghan's preference for keeping things low-key, official photos were carefully shared on the Sussex Royal Instagram account, giving us a sneak peek into this special occasion.
Meghan knows the importance of controlling when and where the media captures these moments. It's all about preserving that personal intimacy with her children, ensuring those precious memories stay within the family's inner circle.
Kate Middleton's Children Embrace Their Royal Heritage and British Citizenship
Kate Middleton and Prince William's children, born at St. Mary's Hospital in London, hold exclusive British citizenship. As they grow up at Kensington Palace, they are deeply rooted in their royal lineage and British heritage. Growing up in Kensington Palace, they are exposed to the rich traditions and responsibilities associated with their royal status. As part of the future generation of the British monarchy, Kate's children have a unique role to play in upholding the institution.
Kate's own upbringing and experiences within the royal family contribute to her approach to raising her children with a strong sense of duty and commitment to their country.
Archie and Lilibet Hold British and American Citizenship
The children born to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle experience a distinct upbringing and future compared to their royal cousins. With a father from the U.K. and a mother from the U.S., Archie and Lilibet currently hold dual citizenship, reflecting their unique heritage. This blend of British and American influences adds an interesting layer to the upbringing of Meghan Markle's children, making their journey one of cultural diversity. Especially now that they live in Los Angeles.
While their British heritage connects them to the royal lineage, their American roots provide a glimpse into a different way of life.
Kate's Parents Are Teaching Her Kids How to Sail
Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis get to experience the finer things in life, and that includes spending a ton of time on boats! Kate and her family love boating and sailing and have even begun teaching the royal children how to sail. Kate's father, Michael Middleton, frequently accompanies his daughter and grandchildren to royal events and loves taking them out on the water. Soon enough, George, Charlotte, and Louis will probably have their own boats.
Rather than hanging out at parks or riding bikes, these royal children spend summers on sailboats, an activity most kids don't experience!
Grandma Doria Watches Archie and Lilibet Every Week
Meghan and her mom, Doria, have shared they have a solid relationship. Meghan is Doria's only daughter, and she is excited to be close to Meghan now that she lives in California. She also takes her grandmother's role very seriously. She has lived with Harry and Meghan and loves spending time with her children as much as possible. It doesn't have to be luxurious activities either; she likes just hanging at home with them.
Doria has taken Archie and Lilibet under her wing and often babysits them. She might not take them sailing or on private jets, but she sure loves hanging with her grandchildren.
Meghan Prefers to Keep Her Kids Photos off of Social Media
You would assume that because Meghan Markle was an actress and Prince Harry and her met through Instagram, she would love sharing things online and with the public! But when it comes to her kids, she's actually exactly the opposite. She prefers to keep her kids off social media and doesn't attend many royal events with them by her side. She's even opened up about struggling with mental health and motherhood.
Meghan revealed that when she was pregnant, she had serious depression and mental health struggles. This hasn't made motherhood the easiest feat, and surely doesn't want to add social media to the mix.
Kate Likes Teaching Her Kids How to Garden
Kate Middleton comes across as cool, calm, and collected, so it's not so surprising that her favorite pastime is gardening! And she's excited to pass down this hobby to her three children. She encourages them to spend time outside and, even from a young age, has taught them gardening skills. They've even planted vegetables and flowers and built a chicken coop together. It's genuinely a sweet family bonding activity that's great for all ages.
Out of all things Kate could've taught her children; it's fitting that gardening is their favorite shared hobby! It requires patience and gentleness, skills Kate loves to teach her kids.
Meghan Prefers Indoor Activities With Her Kids
Although Meghan loves the outdoors just like Kate and likes to spend time with her family in nature, there are a few other activities she prefers to do a bit more with her kids. Meghan's mother, Doria, was a yoga instructor for quite some time and has passed down that hobby to Meghan. So it's no surprise that Meghan and Doria nowadays enjoy teaching Archie and Lilibet various yoga poses!
Meghan has also shared that she loves cooking, so it's pure bliss to cook up new recipes with her kids right by her side helping along the way.
Kate's Children Follow Age-Old Christmas Customs
Kate Middleton, known for her dedication to royal duties, values tradition and ensures her children attend important royal events and holidays. Christmas, for instance, holds a special place in the royal family's calendar. The extended family gathers at Sandringham House, participating in customary activities such as exchanging gifts on Christmas Eve and embarking on the annual "Christmas walk" to St. Mary Magdalene on the 25th. She wouldn't have her kids miss this for anything!
Kate adheres to these traditions diligently, instilling a sense of continuity and heritage in her children. This event is usually recorded and photographed for the press, so her kids must be on their best behavior.
Meghan and Harry Prefer to Spend Their Holidays Away From the Royal Family
While Kate adheres to the traditions of the British royal family, Meghan has carved out her own path with a more unconventional approach. During the holiday seasons, their differences are evident. Kate, dedicated to upholding royal customs, spends Christmas at Sandringham House, engaging in time-honored activities like the "Christmas walk" and exchanging gifts. On the other hand, Meghan and Harry have chosen to celebrate away from the British royal family.
They've spent Christmas in North America, creating their own traditions. With the recent addition of their daughter Lilibet, the family is thrilled to celebrate the holiday season together in California as a family of four.
Kate's Kids Hit the Slopes and Embrace Fancy Fun
Kate Middleton's parenting style embraces a blend of sophistication and cultural immersion, evident in the activities and experiences she offers her children. From skiing adventures to indulging in fancy pastimes, Kate ensures her little ones are fully engaged with British culture. Attending Thomas's Battersea Day School in London, Prince George and Princess Charlotte not only receive an education but also take tennis lessons at the prestigious Hurlingham Club. They surely are kept busy with hobbies most only dream of!
Princess Charlotte even attends ballet classes. Kate's dedication to providing these enriching experiences shows how much she wants her kids to grow and thrive in all aspects of life.
Meghan and Harry Announced Their Pregnancy Against Royal Protocol
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have never shied away from charting their own course, and their approach to parenting is no exception. Bucking traditional royal customs, the couple announced their first pregnancy with Archie against protocol while still serving as working royals. However, with the exciting news of Lilibet's arrival, Meghan and Harry had the opportunity to exercise more control and freedom. They posted their own photos rather than a formal statement on royal social media.
This deviation showcases their desire to navigate parenthood on their terms, something Kate would never do! However, Harry and Meghan are creating a unique narrative for their growing family.
Harry and Meghan Let Their Kids Play in Nature Every Day
Harry and Meghan have opted for a parenting style that embraces the great outdoors and more casual activities for their children. According to people close to them, their little ones have developed a deep love for nature, with Meghan taking daily walks with them through the woods near their home. Whether it's strolling along paved trails or venturing into more rustic routes, Meghan ensures that they spend quality time outdoors.
These walks typically span one to two hours and have become a cherished daily routine for Meghan and instill a love for the outdoors in Archie and Lilibet.
Motherhood Seems to Be a Breeze for Kate
While Meghan has spoken out about her difficulties with motherhood and struggles with mental health, Kate seems to be breezing through parenting. Although she's acknowledged that motherhood can definitely put a strain on mothers, she's overall ecstatic to be a mother. She thinks it's a gift and is generally happy with her experience and kids. She even chooses to work with kids in different charities because she loves kids so much.
Kate has admitted that although motherhood can be challenging, she is mostly overwhelmed with love and joy for her kids. What a supermom!
Meghan and Harry's Parenting Style Challenges Royal Expectations for Archie and Lilibet
Meghan and Harry's unique parenting style has significantly impacted their children, Archie and Lilibet, as it veers away from the traditional royal treatment. Stepping back from their royal duties, the couple has intentionally created a life outside of the UK, emphasizing a more grounded and independent upbringing for their little ones. Despite this shift, it's important to note that Archie and Lilibet still hold a significant position within the royal family and remain in the line of succession for the throne.
While they currently reside in California, the possibility of a future return to Buckingham Palace cannot be entirely ruled out.
William and Kate's Commitment to Protecting Their Children
William and Kate prioritize the safety of their children above all else. As members of the Royal Family, security is of utmost importance. Personal security guards accompany Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and the other young royals at all times. This protocol stems from the need to protect them from potential risks and incidents, including attempted kidnappings in the past. The safety of the youngest members of the royal family is never compromised!
As they grow older, this security measure will continue to be an essential part of their lives. William and Kate are dedicated to providing a secure environment for their children's well-being and peace of mind.
William and Kate Let Their Kids Play Outside Once in a While
Though Kate encourages her kids to follow all of the royal rules, there are some exceptions. William and Kate want their kids to have a normal childhood, so they let them enjoy nature like any other kid. George, Charlotte, and Louis may be royals, but their parents let them play outside, get dirty, and have fun in nature. Whether wearing shorts or exploring the outdoors, they want their children to experience the simple joys of being kids.
They believe in giving their little ones a chance to be carefree and enjoy the wonders of a normal childhood, even amidst the customs and traditions that come with their royal status.