Why Princess Catherine’s children didn’t visit her during her hospital stay

Princess Catherine’s recent hospital stay, following abdominal surgery, left many wondering why her three beloved children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—didn’t make a physical visit to see their ailing mother.

While Prince William dutifully stood by his wife’s side during her recovery from surgery on January 16, the absence of the young royals raised eyebrows.

Royal biographer Ingrid Seward shed light on the decision during an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. 

“I don’t think she wanted to make more of a big thing of it than it already was,” Seward explained.

“They’ll be rallying ’round in their own way and helping to look after her.”

The unconventional choice was further justified by the fact that children are generally not allowed to visit the London Clinic without prior permission for the safety of patients and to prevent the risk of infections.

In a heartwarming display of modern royal parenting, Catherine and William maintained a connection with their children through FaceTime—a practice they often employ during royal tours and official duties that keep them away from their family.

Catherine will no doubt have plenty of time to now spend with her children after Kensington Palace announced that she has been discharged from the London Clinic.

Kensington Palace officially announced Princess Catherine’s return to the Windsor estate, marking the end of her two-week hospital stay.

“The Princess of Wales has returned home to Windsor to continue her recovery from surgery,” Kensington Palace said in a statement.

“She is making good progress.

“The prince and princess wish to say a huge thank you to the entire team at the London Clinic, especially the dedicated nursing staff, for the care they have provided.

“The Wales family continues to be grateful for the well wishes they have received from around the world.”

Princess Catherine is expected to take some time off from public duties until after Easter. In the meantime, her husband, Prince William, the heir to the throne, has postponed his engagements to look after their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.