Kate Middleton, also known as the Princess of Wales, holds a prestigious royal title. However, to her three children, she is simply known as “mum.” Behind the scenes, Kate’s life as a parent is far removed from her regal obligations. In this article, we explore Kate Middleton’s genuine approach to motherhood and the delicate balance she strikes between her public duties and raising her children.
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A Normal Mum, No Pushover
When Kate is off-duty at Adelaide Cottage in Windsor, her family home, insiders reveal that she is just like any other “normal mum.” Despite her royal status, Kate remains down-to-earth and relaxed. She is not a pushover and is known to discipline her children when necessary. A friend once shared that the household is filled with the typical chaos of a busy family, with kids running around and occasionally causing minor mishaps. Kate’s intention is to help her children stay grounded and connected to reality, emphasizing the importance of genuine experiences.
Strict House Rules: No Shouting Allowed
To maintain a harmonious home environment, Kate enforces specific rules that both she and the children must follow. One rule she is particularly strict about is no shouting. An insider revealed that raising one’s voice is “off limits” for the children, and any sign of shouting is dealt with by removing the child from the situation. Instead of resorting to sending the misbehaving child to their room or the naughty step, Kate and William have a different approach—they engage in a calm conversation on the sofa. During this discussion, the child is gently guided to understand the situation, and the consequences of their actions are explained. Importantly, Kate and William never resort to shouting as a means of discipline.
The Power of a Secret Code
Beyond discipline techniques, Kate reportedly uses a secret code to calm her children when needed, and it consistently works. Author Tom Quinn reveals in his book “Gilded Youth: An Intimate History of Growing Up In The Royal Family” that during the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, Prince Louis misbehaved by sticking his tongue out at his mother. Kate’s reaction, praised by experts, involved using a secret code that she employs on various occasions. By simply saying, “Let’s take a break,” Kate conveys to her children the need for calm and order. The few words hold substantial weight, conveying a deeper understanding and resonating with her children.
The Real Mum Behind the Glamorous Image
Kate’s public image portrays glamour and elegance. However, insiders reveal that her home life is often the complete opposite. As a hands-on mother to three young children, Kate’s daily routine is far from the polished appearance she exhibits during official engagements. Frequently seen doing the school run, dropping off and picking up her children from Lambrook School, she opts for a practical mum uniform: a ponytail, gym clothes, or a dress paired with sneakers. Her makeup is minimal, and she often finds herself apologizing for being late. Kate’s life reflects that of a working mother managing the demands of three young children, a different type of day job compared to most.
Parental Guilt: The Constant Challenge
Despite her dedication to both her royal duties and motherhood, Kate admits experiencing parental guilt, which she believes is a shared sentiment among mothers. In an interview with Giovanna Fletcher for her podcast, “Happy Mum, Happy Baby,” Kate opened up about the constant challenges of being a parent. She revealed feeling guilt when her children asked why she couldn’t always drop them off at school. Kate recognizes that being a mother is an ongoing balancing act, often requiring her to juggle work and family life. This sentiment resonates with many mothers, regardless of their professional commitments.
A Nightly Treat and Mutual Support
Fortunately, Kate receives support in her role as a parent from her husband, Prince William, who is actively involved in their children’s lives. Once the children are tucked into bed, William reportedly assists Kate in unwinding. A close friend disclosed that William enjoys making Kate’s favorite drink, a gin and tonic, as a special treat. The couple looks after each other in their own unique ways. While Kate manages the household and the children’s schedules, she also plays a significant role in every aspect of their day.
Conclusion
Kate Middleton’s life as a mum reveals a relatable side to the Princess of Wales. Despite her regal responsibilities, she prioritizes her role as a hands-on parent. Kate’s dedication to her children is evident through her discipline techniques, secret code, and efforts to maintain a grounded environment. While she gracefully navigates the demands of her royal duties, Kate remains acutely aware of the challenges and guilt that accompany motherhood. With the support of Prince William, Kate manages to strike a balance between her responsibilities as a member of the royal family and her role as a devoted mother.