Prince William and Kate Middleton may be admired for their strong parenting style, but experts are now warning that a major transition could deeply affect Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
The Prince and Princess of Wales are reportedly preparing to move into Forest Lodge, an eight bedroom Grade II listed Georgian property located within the 4,800 acre Windsor Great Park. While the move sounds idyllic, experts say the relocation comes with serious challenges for the children.
Child and adolescent therapist Laura Gwilt of Swift Psychology told Hello! that moving is far more stressful for children than many parents realize. According to her, “moving is a significant stressor for children because it disrupts routines and predictability.”
The therapist explained that research shows even one move during childhood can cause emotional difficulties. These may appear in the form of irritability, clinginess, or problems with sleep, all of which can impact a child’s daily stability.
For William and Kate’s three children, the challenge is expected to be greater because of the enormous public attention surrounding their lives. Gwilt stressed that while these struggles are normal, the Wales children will need extra protection and routine to help them through.
She noted, “consistency in school, mealtimes, and family rituals will be especially protective. With their lives already under public attention, keeping routines stable at home can provide a much needed sense of security and normality.”
The therapist further outlined how children at different developmental stages respond differently to moving. Younger children, like Prince Louis, may show regression. This could mean becoming more dependent, showing separation anxiety, or demonstrating behavioral changes that reflect insecurity.
On the other hand, older children, like Prince George and Princess Charlotte, may show more resistance. Gwilt warned that they could display irritability, withdrawal, or even reluctance to engage with their new environment as they struggle to adapt.
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In Prince George’s case, the pressure may be even more intense. As the eldest child and second in line to the throne, George is already under unique scrutiny. Gwilt explained that he may feel a strong responsibility to adapt quickly, which could add extra stress during the transition.
Meanwhile, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis may express their anxieties more openly by seeking greater dependence on their parents or showing reluctance to embrace the changes around them.
This is why experts emphasize that William and Kate’s role is crucial in supporting their children through this period. Rather than dismissing their emotions, Gwilt urged the royal couple to acknowledge and validate them.
She explained, “support adjustment by naming and validating these feelings rather than minimising them, which helps children feel understood and able to cope.” By recognizing the emotional impact, the children will feel secure in knowing their worries are normal and heard.
For the Wales family, the upcoming move could mark a turning point. While Forest Lodge promises a more private and family oriented setting within Windsor, it will also challenge the children’s ability to adapt to change under public scrutiny.
Observers believe that if handled with care, the move could ultimately strengthen family bonds by providing the children with a stable, close knit environment away from the spotlight of central London. But experts insist that stability at home must remain the priority to protect the young royals’ wellbeing.
As William and Kate prepare for this transition, all eyes will be on how they balance their children’s emotional needs with their royal responsibilities. For George, Charlotte, and Louis, this chapter could shape how they handle the pressures of royal life for years to come.
