Prince Harry’s Three-Word Remark Revives Memories of His Royal Upbringing

Prince Harry appeared to draw attention to his own childhood when he recalled being sent away to boarding school while discussing Archie and Lilibet’s experience of starting the school week.

The Duke of Sussex, 42, made the remark during an interview with HELLO!’s Royal Editor Emily Nash ahead of the WellChild Awards in London on Monday, September 21.

Harry attended the ceremony alone, with Meghan Markle remaining with their children.

Harry Compares His Childhood With His Children’s

Harry was asked whether he had spoken to seven-year-old Prince Archie and five-year-old Princess Lilibet about his work with WellChild and the empathy and compassion he has developed through his long association with the charity.

He explained that the children were experiencing some “Monday blues” that morning.

For Harry, however, the feeling had once come at a different point in the week.

“There’s always something like Sunday night blues or boarding school … when you’ve been away, or before you go to school,” he said.

He then added the three words that drew attention to his own experience: “Like I was.”

Harry went on to explain how he used his plans for the evening to distract his children from their difficult morning.

“At breakfast this morning, I decided, you know what, you are being a little bit tricky, so I’m going to tell you what I’m doing tonight,” he said.

According to Harry, Archie and Lilibet quickly became interested in what he had planned and began asking questions.

Passing On Awareness To Archie And Lilibet

Harry said that conversations like this were part of how he and Meghan hoped to help their children develop greater awareness of other people’s experiences.

“With all of my work, and their mum’s work as well, whatever we can do to try and instil some of that awareness, I think, is absolutely crucial,” he said.

The comments came as Harry continues his long association with WellChild. He has served as the charity’s patron for 18 years and attended the 2026 awards for the 16th time. The ceremony was held at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London and celebrated seriously ill children, their families and the professionals who support them.

During the event, Harry presented the Inspirational Child Award to six-year-old Margot Jones-Billington and delivered a speech highlighting the importance of supporting children and families living with complex medical needs.

Archie And Lilibet’s School Move

Harry’s comments also come shortly after Archie and Lilibet began school in the UK following the family’s return from California.

The children initially attended a school after the family moved back to Britain, but they were subsequently withdrawn amid security and logistical concerns. Reports have since indicated that they have moved to another school.

Harry has spoken openly about how the children are adjusting to their new routine, including their “Monday morning blues” before school.

For the Sussexes, the transition has brought a new chapter of family life in Britain, while Harry has continued attending charity engagements and introducing his children to the causes that have remained important to him.