Duchess of Cambridge in Birmingham for project launch
The Duchess of Cambridge has been in Birmingham to launch a landmark national survey about the early years development of children.
She's described that part of a child's life as its' most "crucial" moment for "future health and happiness".
The Duchess, who is the mother of three young children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, joined primary and nursery school age children in MiniBrum, a child-size version of Birmingham where children learn through play. It's based in the city's Thinktank Science Museum.
Kate travelled to Birmingham to highlight her ambitious project, asking "five big questions on the under-fives" which will guide her future work.
The online poll, conducted by Ipsos Mori on behalf of the Royal Foundation, is thought to be the biggest survey of its kind. It aims to encourage a nationwide conversation about early childhood.
Kate has begun a 24-hour tour of the country to launch the initiative.
The Duchess's survey will run for a month, from January 21st to February 21st, and will ask those taking the poll five questions to gauge their views about early years.
Kate crouched down to chat to some of the youngsters in a shop and when she moved on to a cafe pulled a face of surprise when a cupboard door, designed to be removed came off in her hand. She joked “we’ve broken the cafe”.
The Duchess also spoke to parents also at the event in Birmingham.
David Holmes, the Chief Executive of Family Action, which helps families in need, joined the Duchess at her launch event. She is their Royal patron,
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