Princess Charlotte, third in line to the British throne, may seem to live a life of glamour and privilege, but the reality behind the royal walls is more complex.

In many ways, she is a striking example of how modern royal life blends tradition with the pursuit of a “normal” childhood, as her parents, the Prince and Princess of Wales, strive to strike a delicate balance between duty and family.

Born on May 2, 2015, Princess Charlotte Elizabeth Diana is the second child of Prince William and Kate Middleton, and her name reflects a deep connection to both royal history and her family’s heritage.

The name “Elizabeth” honors Queen Elizabeth II, her great-grandmother, while “Diana” is a loving tribute to her late grandmother, Princess Diana.

The name “Charlotte,” however, carries a more personal meaning, chosen not just for its historical significance but for its connection to both the Middleton and Windsor families. In French, Charlotte translates to “little” or “free” and is the feminine form of “Charles,” serving as a tribute to her grandfather, King Charles III.

In a stark contrast to the image of royals surrounded by an army of servants, the couple relies on just one nanny to assist with their children’s care. Catherine takes on many of the duties herself, from bathing Charlotte and her brothers to tucking them into bed at night. According to an insider, the Princess of Wales has confided that there is no place for puritanical royal protocol in her household. Instead, she values spending quality time with her children, indulging them when appropriate, and disciplining them when necessary—much like any ordinary parent.

One example of the Prince and Princess of Wales’ approach to family life is their handling of the children’s meals. If they refuse to eat, no alternatives are provided—only a glass of milk until the next meal. But it’s not all strict discipline. Like her mother, Princess Charlotte enjoys occasional indulgences, such as French fries—a treat reminiscent of Princess Diana’s secret trips to McDonald’s with her sons, William and Harry.

Charlotte’s poise was again on display at the 2023 coronation of King Charles III, where she not only appeared stunning in a white dress with silver embroidery but also exhibited maturity beyond her years. However, even the most polished royals have their moments of imperfection. After curtsying to King Charles at the coronation concert, Charlotte briefly forgot to curtsy to Queen Camilla. The minor misstep didn’t go unnoticed by the media, but Charlotte handled it with grace, maintaining her composure despite the attention.

Despite her position in the line of succession, which puts her directly behind her brother, Prince George, Charlotte is not expected to be a full-time working royal. Prince William and Princess Kate have shown a modern approach to raising their children, one that emphasizes personal fulfillment over royal duty. Experts believe that, like Prince Harry before her, Charlotte may one day choose to build a career outside the royal family, though she may still take on certain duties when the occasion arises.