Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has recently shared four insightful back-to-school tips inspired by her children, Archie and Lilibet. The Duchess revealed these tips as her little ones, aged 6 and 4 respectively, prepare to return to school. Meghan, who recently made a comeback on Netflix with season 2 of “With Love, Meghan,” where she engages in activities like cooking, crafting, and collaborating with guests, is now extending her creativity to provide valuable advice for a smooth transition into the new school year. Here’s a look at Meghan’s top tips exclusively shared with PEOPLE.
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One of Meghan’s top recommendations is to never underestimate the power of a handwritten note. She suggests slipping a note with a joke, poem, or words of love into your child’s lunchbox. The personal touch from a parent can offer a boost of confidence to the child as they head back to school, regardless of their age. Meghan, who has a background in calligraphy, highlights the impact of a simple gesture like this in fostering a connection with your child.
Another tip from Meghan involves surprising your child with a small token in their backpack on the first Friday back to school. This gesture aims to acknowledge any big emotions that the first week of school might bring. The Duchess recommends thoughtful items like stickers, a family photo, or a whimsical surprise to show your child that you are thinking of them. It’s the little details like these that can convey a sense of love and care.
When it comes to lunchboxes, Meghan suggests switching things up by offering unconventional meals like breakfast for lunch. Swapping a sandwich for waffles or pancakes, accompanied by bacon, eggs, and jam, can add an element of fun to your child’s lunchtime routine. Adding a touch of creativity to the lunchbox presentation can also make the meal more exciting for the little ones. Meghan emphasises the importance of novelty and playfulness in making everyday experiences special.
Meghan recommends the “rose and thorn” practice as a simple yet effective way to connect as a family at the end of the day. This involves sharing the highlights (rose) and challenges (thorn) of the day with each other. By encouraging open communication and reflection, this practice creates a space for family members to bond and support one another. Meghan shares how this ritual has brought joy to their family, with their children now excitedly sharing their own highlights with them.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Meghan previously disclosed a nightly routine she shares with her husband, Prince Harry, known as “nightcap recaps.” This tradition involves unwinding with a drink and discussing their day while preparing lunch boxes for Archie and Lilibet. Meghan acknowledges the familiar routine of parents with children of similar ages and the comfort that routines like these can bring to family life. Such traditions not only foster family unity but also provide a sense of stability amidst the busyness of daily life.
Meghan Markle’s back-to-school tips draw from her personal experiences as a mother and her commitment to creating meaningful connections with her children. By incorporating gestures of love, surprises, and thoughtful conversations into daily routines, Meghan highlights the importance of nurturing relationships within the family. As the Duchess continues to navigate parenthood in the public eye, her insights offer valuable lessons for parents seeking to enrich their children’s lives during the back-to-school season.