Whether you are a regular, suburban citizen or a member of the royal family, one truth remains – it’s not easy to be a parent. Anyone who has children knows how much of a struggle it can be to take care of their daily needs. One of the best thing that first-time parents can do is to watch and learn from other moms and dads, and perhaps a learn a bit about how to go about raising their own child. Fortunately, Meghan Markle, who is soon to welcome her first child with her husband Prince Harry, has a fantastic example to look up to in her sister-in-law, the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton.
Kate Middleton is a hands-on mom
The royal family has in the past received some negative press for their decades-long practice of hiring nannies for all their young children. While Kate Middleton and Prince William do have hired help for their three little ones, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, they are also quite possibly the most doting, hands-on parents that the royal family has seen thus far. Prince William likely learned a lot about parenting from his mother, the late Princess Diana, who was lauded as one of the best famous mothers of her time.
Prince William and Duchess Kate are visibly affectionate with their children and are often seen hugging and kissing them. Kate Middleton often gets down to eye level with her children, which can help them feel more understood. The royal pair also shares the responsibilities of parenting equally, realizing that their children need the guidance of both. The royals are often photographed at charity ball games or events, often with their young children in tow, just like any other family.
The difficulties of parenthood
Prince William and Kate Middleton, carrying baby Prince George, arrive at the airport in Wellington for a three-week tour of New Zealand and Australia. | Mark Tantrum/ AFP/ Getty Images
Being royal doesn’t mean it’s any easier to raise children. Kate Middleton has been very vocal over the years about the challenges she’s faced with all three of her children, including how nothing can really prepare you for the emotional toll that parenthood can take.
In a recent conversation that the Duchess had with one of her favorite organizations, the Family Action charity, she spoke at length about the difficulties that she’s experienced raising children in the spotlight. The Duchess admitted that while there can often be some support for new parents while the baby is little, the support gradually dwindles as the child gets older. Kate stated that parents still need guidance throughout the entire journey, and that struggles can only deepen over time if the mother and father aren’t getting the proper help.
What Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton have in common
While Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton have very different personalities and interests, the two Duchesses share one very important trait – they are both down-to-earth and dedicated to family. Kate Middleton was raised in a large, close family unit, and Meghan Markle shares an especially tight bond with her mother, Doria Ragland. An easygoing nature can be incredibly helpful when raising a child, especially in those exhausting early months. Fortunately, rumors that Meghan Markle and Duchess Kate had a rift seem unfounded, and the two royal women will be able to bond over more than ever in the upcoming months.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have had some experience in their uncle and aunt duties to Prince William and Duchess Kate’s children, but welcoming their own little one into the world will be a whole new ballgame. Fortunately, Markle and Prince Harry can turn to their experienced relatives when they need advice, support, or just an afternoon off. As Duchess Kate has revealed to the world, everyone can use support when raising a family, and that the struggle is normal for everyone.
