When it comes to family dinners, the young royals are subject to a set of rules that many parents of lively children can probably understand—but may also envy.

For Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, there’s no sitting at the adult table during special occasions, including the grand family gatherings at Christmas.

Instead, the royal children are required to sit separately from their parents at official dinners until they reach their teenage years, and only then will they be allowed to join the grown-ups.

For Prince William and Princess Catherine, however, maintaining good manners and table etiquette is a priority.

The couple’s strict approach to mealtime is part of their broader parenting philosophy, which emphasizes structure and discipline. When speaking candidly about mealtimes with their three children, William has revealed that dinner success largely depends on the menu. As he explained, “If parents put something on the table that children love, dinner time goes very well. But if you put something on the table they don’t want to eat, that’s another ball game.”

“Why would they buy packaged food when the Queen has 20 personal chefs?” McGrady joked, explaining how William and Harry’s meals were carefully prepared, with one chef responsible for the chicken, another for vegetables, and then everything would be blended together—nothing was left to chance.

Despite their young ages, George, Charlotte, and Louis have learned to adapt to the royal family’s high expectations. They have been taught to eat politely, with no special accommodations, even in the public eye.

While the rigorous routine may seem demanding to some, it reflects the royal family’s focus on instilling important values such as respect, responsibility, and consideration for others—values that will serve George, Charlotte, and Louis as they grow older.