Kate Middleton ‘aware of the pressure of raising George,’ says expert

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As the Princess of Wales prepares to celebrate her eldest son George’s 10th birthday this weekend, she’s undoubtedly feeling the increasing strain of being mother to a future king, according to royal experts.

Just three months ago, Kate and husband Prince William, both 41, reportedly were concerned that the pressure of the coronation would prove too much for George. The youngster was given a major role as a Page of Honour on his grandfather’s big day, putting him in the spotlight as millions around the world tuned in to watch the historic event. Kate only agreed to their son being placed at the heart of the event if he wasn’t subject to “overwhelming scrutiny”.

Now, as George approaches his teens, it’s inevitable there will be more focus on him. But royal biographer Angela Levin says level-headed Kate will always do her best to protect him.

“Kate’s a very confident mother. But even so, she’s acutely aware of the pressure of raising George as the future monarch. It’s a very heavy burden to carry.”

For any child, reaching those magical double digits is exciting. For a parent, it’s a reminder that their “baby” will be a teenager in the blink of an eye, and a wish to turn back the clock is inevitable.

“George’s 10th birthday is a milestone,” says Angela. “I think all parents wish their children wouldn’t grow up so fast, and it’s no different for Kate. In fact, George still sometimes holds her hand when they walk about, although that might stop when he turns 10!”

Kate may also be reflecting on the day – 22 July 2013 – when she first held little George in her arms. It’s not surprising then that Angela makes the bold claim that “Kate is broody!”

Pointing out how the princess often makes a beeline for younger members of the crowds on royal walkabouts, she adds, “It’s why she’s so enthusiastic about holding babies wherever she goes. She cuddles them and you can see the look on her face which is soft and loving. She simply loves small children.”

But while the idea of a fourth baby might still be on Kate’s radar at the age of 41, she has previously let slip that William is adamant he doesn’t want any more children. It’s something his wife “accepts”, says Angela, fully aware that The Firm “needs her as a working royal” now more than ever.

From day one, both Kate and William have set out to give their three children – George and his siblings Princess Charlotte, eight, and five-year-old Prince Louis – a regular upbringing, despite being born into one of the most famous families in the world.

“I think they do have a sort of normal family life – well, as much as they can,” says Angela. “And Kate will want to keep that up for them. I hear they all have cleaning jobs at home. There’s zero need for them to do it, but it’s a good idea that they have to put things away or wipe the table. She wants to help them understand they have to do a certain amount of looking after themselves.”

After George was born, Kate even began a new tradition of photographing most of the children’s birthday portraits, and other snapshots of family life.

It was reportedly “an informal arrangement with the press”. According to Angela, keen photographer Kate “developed her photography skills so she could protect George from having too many formal portraits taken by professional photographers”. “Now,” Angela continues, “It seems George couldn’t care less about being captured on camera and that’s wonderful. The way Kate dealt with it was very, very good.”

With her knowledge of parenting gained from her research into early years development, Kate is also intent on raising George to become a quietly confident young man who can one day handle the pressures that come with being a monarch.

Kate and William encourage their kids “to speak about their feelings” and “give them the tools and sensitivity to be supportive” of others – a clear sign that any concerns Kate has about George’s future are being tackled head on. Kate is making sure he won’t shoulder the burden alone, but will reach out in times of need. “We know there is no shame in a young child struggling with their emotions,” she has said.

Angela is impressed by the way in which Kate is gradually letting George step out of her shadow.

“I think she’s gently moved him into a position where he seems comfortable when there are a lot of people around,” she says. “When he was younger he’d cling to his parents and find it awkward to shake hands with people. Now, particularly when they take him to a sporty event, he’s relaxed and happy with people around him.”

Of course, when it comes to George’s birthday, he’ll enjoy being the centre of attention away from the public eye, with just his friends and family present.

“Kate will want to give George a special treat on his birthday,” says former royal correspondent Jennie Bond, “like any other parent would for their child.”

While memorabilia from his favourite football team, Aston Villa, will no doubt be at the top of George’s wishlist, perhaps just having his parents’ undivided attention will be the cherry on top of the cake.

“Now that the busy royal workload is winding down for the summer, Kate and William will be able to devote the day to George,” says Jennie.

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