Britain’s Duchess of Cambridge had a "wonderful and secure childhood".
Duchess Catherine – who was known as Kate Middleton before her marriage to Prince William – opened up about her early life during a speech at a conference for headteachers in London organised by her children’s mental health charity Place2Be.
She said: "I often get asked why I decided to spend time highlighting the mental health of children.
"I imagine my answer might be similar to many of yours.
"I know that I was lucky.
"My parents and teachers provided me with a wonderful and secure childhood where I always knew I was loved, valued and listened to.
"But of course many children are not so lucky."
The 33-year-old royal – who has two-year-old son Prince George and six-month-old daughter Princess Charlotte with William – called on the audience to "give all children the space to build their emotional strength and provide a strong foundation for their future."
She continued: "Of course, not all children have the anchor of a strong family.
"Many will arrive through your school gates feeling a real lack of love and devotion in their lives.
"This often leaves them feeling insecure and without confidence and trust in the world around them.
"That is why your work is so important."
The brunette beauty concluded her speech, saying: "Imagine if everyone was able to help just one child who needs to be listened to, needs to be respected, and needs to be loved – we could make such a huge difference for an entire generation."
Duchess Catherine had ‘wonderful and secure’ childhood
