That’s why Prince William can afford to be more relaxed in public than his father. William is not expected to take the throne any time soon, but he and the Duchess of Cambridge are already paving the way for their children to take on higher-profile roles and duties.
Now, they are entering a new phase, gradually bringing their children out in front of the traditional media and getting them involved in their first official engagements.
Seven-year-old Charlotte had her turn this week during the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, where she was greeted by a traditional line-up, shaking hands and looking her hosts in the eye with a confidence beyond her years.
She made a splash from the stands as she watched the swimming on Tuesday. Proving she can be just as animated as her brother Louis, the princess was seen pulling a variety of funny faces throughout the day, as well as enjoying lively conversations with her parents.
Later, the trio watched England’s women take on India in the hockey, and enjoyed some artistic gymnastics. The family also visited athletics charity SportsAid, where Charlotte revealed her favorite sport is, in fact, gymnastics. This was off the back of her viral video wishing the England football team good luck for the women’s European final last weekend.
With each outing, we’re learning a little more about this next generation of Windsors. And seeing the family in less formal settings, where they combine their duties with some fun, delights the crowds in attendance as well as the royal-watchers at home.
Early fame is never easy, but the royals have more experience than others in how to handle it. Prince William, in particular, is scarred by memories of media intrusion from his own childhood, when his mother, Diana, was the most sought-after personality on the planet. He knows where to draw the line with his own family, and he won’t allow it to be crossed.
For William and Kate, the challenge is getting the balance right. They’re aware the family needs to be seen in order to remain relevant, and that the children must get used to the limelight, but they also believe they have the same rights as the rest of us to some privacy. It’s also in the public interest for them to have a happy and stable upbringing to form the foundations of a life in public service.
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PHOTO OF THE WEEK
Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge is seen during a visit to the 1851 Trust and the Great Britain SailGP Team in Plymouth, England on July 31. During the visit, Kate took to the water in activities aimed at educating young people about sustainability.
