Prince William and Kate Middleton have been warned about a potential source of stress that could affect all three of their children — Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
Child and adolescent therapist Laura Gwilt of Swift Psychology shared the caution while speaking with Hello! magazine. She explained that relocating homes can pose unique challenges for children, even in well-supported families. “Moving is a significant stressor for children because it disrupts routines and predictability,” Gwilt said.
The Prince and Princess of Wales are preparing to move into Forest Lodge, a Grade II listed Georgian property with eight bedrooms located within Windsor Great Park’s 4,800 acres. The gothic-style home is expected to give the family more privacy, but experts say it may also test the resilience of the young royals.
“Research shows that even a single move in childhood can increase emotional stress, with effects like irritability, clinginess, or difficulty sleeping,” Gwilt warned. However, she emphasized that such reactions are common. “These are normal adjustment responses to losing a familiar environment.”
For children like the Wales siblings, she added, stability will be especially important. “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.”
Gwilt noted that the impact of moving varies with age. “Children respond to moving differently depending on their developmental stage. Younger children may regress temporarily — becoming more dependent, struggling with separation, or showing behavioural changes.”
By contrast, older children and teenagers may push back against the transition. “Older children and adolescents may resist, displaying irritability, withdrawal, or reluctance to engage in the new environment,” she said.
As the eldest, Prince George may shoulder the heaviest burden. “George, as the eldest, may feel the pressure of adapting quickly, while Charlotte and Louis may display more overt dependency,” Gwilt explained.
The therapist advised William and Kate to be proactive in easing the transition. “Support adjustment by naming and validating these feelings rather than minimising them, which helps children feel understood and able to cope,” she said.
While the family’s new home promises comfort and security, experts stress that the psychological needs of the children should remain at the forefront during the move. The advice underscores how even royal children, despite their privilege, face challenges that many families experience during major life changes.