On Raising a Princess

Admittedly, many (most) of us Kate fans around here have secret (or not-so-secret) aspirations (delusions) of royalty.  *Raises hand* What Would Kate Do? Editor Amanda has written you an excellent primer on the job requirements for becoming a princess.  However (and don’t flame me here!) the statistical odds of becoming an HRH are decidedly not in our favor.  Moreover, for many of us, the proverbial marital ship has sailed.  But all is not lost! For those of us who believe in the value of a princess in today’s crazy world, the opportunity remains to raise a princess.  The example the Duchess of Cambridge sets for her own little Princess is an insightful glimpse into how to raise a princess.  P.S.  If you’re of a mind to raise a president, these same parenting values will certainly set you on the right course.

Be Kind

The advice dispensed to young Cinderella by Hayley Atwell in the 2015 film – “be kind” – is the heart of what it means to be a princess.  Gone with the guillotine are the days of aloof royals.  The Duchess of Cambridge’s civility and kindness are the foundation of her popularity and effectiveness.  Kate sets this example for Charlotte by meeting well-wishers’ eyes, giving her attention to those with whom she speaks (in fact, she has admitted to a reputation within the Royal Family for chatting too long on walkabouts), and showing genuine interest in others’ stories.  She and William even sent breakfast to well-wishers awaiting Princess Charlotte’s arrival outside the Lindo Wing.  Despite jealous or petty naysayers among the press and public, Duchess Catherine never stoops to the level of Twitter wars.  Your mother’s old adage is worth passing down to your daughter: “if you don’t have something nice to say. . .” keep those Sandwash Pink lips sealed!

Be an Advocate

As savvy WWKD readers know, being a royal is about so much more than borrowing jewels from the Queen.  Many royal watchers have been pleasantly surprised at the passion the Duchess of Cambridge has shown in advocating for children and families, particularly in the delicate area of mental health.

In a day and time when royals don’t necessarily decide policy or wage war, channeling their power of influence to those in need – however varied that need might be – for the purpose of affecting positive change is a must on the royal resume.  Expect to see Kate guide her daughter in channeling her personal interests into avenues of advocacy, much as the world saw Diana, Princess of Wales do in raising her Princes.

Always Put Your Best Foot Forward

Of course, fashion does play an undeniable part in the life of a princess.  Duchess Kate’s example for Princess Charlotte encompasses not only looking polished, but using fashion to make a statement – whether it’s giving a nod to a worthy cause (one reason we here at WWKD love fashion designer Beulah).  Or showing some love to a host country by showcasing a local designer or national emblem.

I doubt my own Baby Princess will become a candidate to be Mrs. Prince George (her love for her brother’s toilet humour has pretty well foreclosed that possibility), but if she can learn some of Duchess Kate’s lessons, she’ll grown up to be a modern princess in her own right.