On Tuesday the Duchess of Cambridge left her two young children Prince George and Princess Charlotte at home to spend time bonding with other youngsters. Kate visited the Anna Freud Centre in north London, where she joined in their Christmas party and the Family School's end of term celebrations.
Arriving in the morning, the Duchess was greeted by scores of excited children.
The stylish royal, who was spotted doing some Christmas shopping in Chelsea last week, embraced the festive spirit in a red Alexander McQueen dress, which she previously wore to the Diamond Jubilee in 2012.
© Photo: Getty ImagesKate took part in a drumming lesson at the Anna Freud Centre's Christmas party in north London
Kate's visit reflected her interest in child mental health issues. The Centre's Family School helps children with serious emotional and behavioural issues and provides support to parents. Mental health support is also integrated into the children's education.
With just over a week to go until Christmas, the Duchess was clearly excited about the festive period.
During her engagement she took part in some festive activities including a drumming workshop where she tapped along to We Will Rock You.
Kate drummed along to We Will Rock You
Artistic Kate, who is a keen shutterbug and studied History of Art at university, will also help families make a Christmas-themed collage on a wall using handprints.
The activities are designed to help pupils reflect on the positive progress they have made during the term – academically, but also in their social relationships and communication skills.
The Duchess, 33, will also be treated to various performances by the youngsters, which celebrate their achievements.
The arty Duchess also got stuck into a collage-making session
Kate's last engagement with the Anna Freud Centre was in September, when she toured the Centre's Family School and learnt about how the charity helps children and young people who suffer with mental health problems. The charity provides support in homes and schools and also has its special clinic in London.
© Photo: Getty ImagesThis little Santa got a hug from the VIP visitor
Making her return to royal duty after giving birth to her daughter Charlotte, Kate was on good form and eager to champion the issue of child mental health.
A large part of her engagements this autumn have been related to the issue. Last month she spoke at the Head Teacher School Conference run by children's charity Place2Be. The conference – entitled "My Head Is Too Full" – was being held to discuss what schools can do to support children's mental health and Kate admitted that she was lucky to have such a "wonderful" upbringing.
