Prince Harry Has This "Really Important" Parenting Rule as His Son Prince Archie Turns 7

May 7, 2026 - 06:34

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's eldest child, Prince Archie, celebrated his seventh birthday this week. As the Duke of Sussex reflects on fatherhood, he has shared what he calls a "really important" rule for raising his son and daughter, Princess Lilibet.

According to sources close to the family, Harry is determined to give Archie and Lilibet a childhood that feels as normal as possible, despite their royal lineage. The core of his parenting philosophy centers on ensuring the children understand the value of humility and service. Harry has reportedly told friends that he wants his kids to grow up without a sense of entitlement, a lesson he learned from his own complicated experience within the royal family.

The couple, who stepped back from senior royal duties in 2020 and now live in Montecito, California, are focused on creating a stable and loving environment. For Archie's birthday, the family planned a low-key celebration at home, complete with a homemade cake and time outdoors. Harry has often spoken about how becoming a father changed his perspective on life and gave him a new sense of purpose. He is said to be deeply involved in the daily routines of bath time, bedtime stories, and school drop-offs, activities he values highly.

The rule, which Harry has mentioned in past interviews, is about teaching his children to treat everyone with respect, regardless of their background or status. It is a principle he and Meghan are actively modeling for Archie and Lilibet as they navigate their lives away from the formal constraints of the British monarchy.