10 Bizarre Rules Royal Children Absolutely Have to Follow

If you went by Disney standards, being a royal would equate to living a lavish lifestyle in a luxurious castle, wherein you’re waited upon by adorable animals while also making (and breaking) your own rules. Alas, living the royal life isn’t quite as whimsical as we initially thought. Yes, they’re still wealthy and famous and have many opportunities us commoners don’t — but they also happen to have a plethora of bizarre (and outdated) rules they have to abide by lest Her Majesty cast them a withering look. Even the kids — Prince George, 7, Princess Charlotte, 5, Prince Louis, 2, and one-year-old Archie – don’t get off easy. These quirky traditions are the same set of rules princes William and Harry rigidly followed as youths, along with their ancestors before them. From clothing and etiquette to food cutoffs and travel restrictions, we break down the strangest rules of the bunch.

Prince George holds his father, Prince William's, hand as they disembark from a private plane

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Boys can only wear shorts

Not even a stiff breeze in the thick of sweater weather will result in pants for royal boys of a certain age — and the reasoning behind it is pretty bougie. In England, shorts represent a high station in society, which is why Prince George has almost exclusively been photographed in knee-length bottoms. That being said, the seven-year-old is one year away from being able to finally put on "big boy pants" — and that's because royal boys can finally don a pair of trousers once they've turned eight. At least this bizarre rule has a deadline.

the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge laugh on the Buckingham Palace balcony during the Trooping of the Colour 2019 with kids Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis

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They must attend all major royal engagements

Although they're not full-fledged working royals yet, all kiddos are expected to attend major engagements and family events throughout the year. That's why, regardless of age, you'll always see the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge with George, Charlotte and Louis, whether they're on an international royal tour or attending the annual Trooping of the Colour in honour of the queen's birthday. There's no hiding a tantrum-prone child, either, so no doubt William and Kate make sure their three offspring have a good night's sleep the evening before the event.

Prince George and Princess Charlotte, dressed for school, hold dad Prince William's hand as they walk to class

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They’re required to undergo etiquette training

Although royal kids attend private school with regular plebs, they also have to undergo etiquette training, which covers everything from how to wave to the public and graciously accept gifts to how to walk, sit and eat in a royally pleasing manner.

Princess Diana with her two young sons, princes William and Harry, in the 80s

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They can’t wear black during the day

Although royals must always have a black mourning outfit on hand when they travel, they otherwise can't wear such dark shades in broad daylight. This rule applies to kids and adults alike, but kids almost never wear black. This is why you'll always see George, Charlotte and Louis (and even a young Harry and William above) in soft pastels and blues.

Princess Charlotte wears a pastel pink and white dress while kicking a soccer ball around outside

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Girls have to wear dresses

Similar to how boys under the age of eight have to wear shorts, girls are expected to exclusively wear dresses. (Yes, we realize the House of Windsor still needs to move into the 21st century when it comes to gender norms.) Not-so-fun-fact: Charlotte, like every princess before her, isn't allowed to wear a tiara until she gets married. Here's hoping the mischievous cherub rebels against this rule one day.

Prince George, Prince William, the Duchess of Cambridge and Princess Charlotte on the tarmac upon arrival during a Royal Tour

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The heirs have to travel separately

For now, the Cambridge's travel together as a family unit. But once Prince George turns 12, he and his father, Prince William, will have to travel separately. That's because heirs aren't allowed to travel in the same car or plane lest a tragic accident occur and take out two (if not more) members who are in the direct line to the throne. When that day comes for George, it'll no doubt be an eye-opening experience to watch his parents, sister and brother depart without him.

Princess Charlotte sniffs a tiny floral bouquet

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They have a rule against gifts from the public

If you're an avid royal watcher who intends to make an appearance at an upcoming royal event, don't bother bringing gifts or handmade trinkets. Although members of the royal family are often snapped taking bouquets from adoring fans, they can't keep any of the gifts that are handed to them. That same rule applies to the kids. Good luck to the parent who has to explain to a royal tot why they absolutely cannot keep the stuffed teddy bear that was just handed to them.

the Duchess of Cambridge shares a laugh with family while she carries son Prince Louis at his christening

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Babies can’t eat… baby food

While mum's diet is usual fresh fruits and vegetables, royal babies are not allowed to eat canned foods, including store-bought mush. Instead, given the fact that they have personal chefs at their disposal, royal babies are expected to eat twice-puréed fruits. Why twice? To ensure there are no hidden lumps.

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and Prince Harry debut son Archie to the press

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They are issued passports at birth

As reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth is the only member of the family who isn't required to carry a passport. On the flip side, royal babies are issued one at birth as they're expected to travel with their parents on international royal tours or in case of sudden emergency

Close-up of Prince William dressed in his Air Force uniform

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Male members must serve in the military

Male royals are expected to serve their country — and it's something they have to start considering from a young age. Although it's not technically a rule set in stone, it's certainly expected. Heir apparent Prince Charles served in the Navy, while William chose the Air Force and Harry the army. It's something George and Louis will have to ponder in the coming years