When it comes to playtime for her three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—Princess Kate has an unexpected rule that may surprise many. Despite the royal family’s often pristine public image, Kate and her husband, Prince William, emphasize a down-to-earth approach to their children’s leisure activities, with a focus on outdoor fun that embraces getting dirty.

The Princess of Wales and Prince William are known for their commitment to spending time outside with their kids. Whether it’s picnicking in the open air, enjoying beach outings, or embarking on family bike rides, they cherish these outdoor moments. According to nannying expert Louise Heren, Kate’s rule is straightforward: the messier, the better. Heren shared with Hello! magazine that the family engages in a lot of outdoor activities, such as bike rides and playing with their pets, and that Kate encourages her children to get their hands dirty. Even in inclement weather, Kate insists that the children continue their outdoor adventures, fully immersing themselves in the elements.

Kate’s approach to parenting draws from her own childhood experiences. In a 2020 interview on Giovanna Fletcher’s “Happy Mum, Happy Baby” podcast, Kate revealed her passion for outdoor play, reflecting on how her own fond memories of being outside shaped her parenting style. She described her desire for her children to have similar experiences, such as beach outings where they could get soaked and enjoy simple pleasures. Her goal is to create lasting memories of family fun and the joy of outdoor activities.

Kate also mentioned the influence of her grandmother, who played a significant role in her childhood. Her grandmother’s dedication to activities like arts and crafts, as well as gardening, has inspired Kate to incorporate these elements into her own family life. This hands-on, creative approach is something Kate strives to pass on to her children, making sure they appreciate nature and the joys of getting a little muddy.

Carole Middleton, Kate’s mother, shares this philosophy. She enjoys creating engaging outdoor experiences for her grandchildren when they visit. Carole has explained her method of setting up activity stations for gardening, complete with tools and pots, to keep the children engaged. She believes that allowing kids to get a bit dirty while learning about nature is crucial for their development. In a 2021 interview with Good Housekeeping, Carole expressed her enthusiasm for outdoor activities, such as running down hills, climbing trees, and playing in the playground with her grandchildren, reflecting her belief in the importance of physical activity and fun.