Prince William reshapes royal parenting to avoid heir and spare divide after Prince Harry’s interview

Prince William and Princess Catherine are raising their children to avoid past royal pitfalls.


Pop Culture & Art May 09, 2025
Photo: AP

Prince William is reportedly prioritising a different parenting approach for his children, following Prince Harry’s latest public remarks about life within the royal family. The shift comes as royal experts point to Prince Harry’s own experiences growing up as the 'spare'  a role he described as isolating and undervalued.

According to royal expert Hilary Fordwich, Prince William and Princess Catherine aim to raise their children  George, Charlotte, and Louis with a mix of royal responsibility and emotional balance. Their parenting approach reportedly includes shared family routines, outdoor activities, and a focus on maintaining a grounded upbringing.

Prince Harry’s recent BBC interview aired on May 2  the same day Princess Charlotte turned 10 drawing renewed attention to concerns about the challenges faced by second-born royals. Experts have noted that Charlotte, like Harry, occupies a potentially vulnerable position as the “spare” to her elder sibling, Prince George.

Royal biographer Robert Hardman told People magazine that Queen Elizabeth II was acutely aware of these pressures, citing her closeness with Princess Margaret, Prince Andrew, and Prince Harry. Royal commentator Helena Chard added that Princess Anne has become a mentor to Charlotte, offering guidance on how to navigate a supportive role in a hierarchical institution.

According to Fox News Digital, Prince William and Princess Catherine are making conscious efforts to avoid repeating past royal patterns. Despite the ongoing rift with Prince Harry, William remains focused on preparing his children for the future, and experts suggest Princess Charlotte may eventually assume a role similar to Princess Anne — a steady and supportive presence within the monarchy.

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