Traditionally, royal mothers gave birth at home, in the palace. Princess Diana, however, gave birth in St. Mary's Hospital in the private Lindo Wing, thus breaking this tradition and paving the way for a new one.
In the past, an official witness had to be present at the time of birth to make sure there was no baby swapping. This ancient tradition ended before the birth of Prince Charles in 1948. This witness, usually a secretary, was the only male allowed in the room - even fathers weren't allowed!
The guns firing at Green Park/SourceRoyal babies are welcomed into the world with many announcements and ceremonies. The new royal is honored by a 62-gun salute from the Tower of London, followed by a 41-gun salute from Green Park. As a tribute to tradition, the town crier also announces the birth. This position was invented in medieval times when most people couldn't read the news.
Upon the baby's safe delivery into the world, a birth announcement is displayed on a golden easel in front of Buckingham Palace. This announcement used to be handwritten, but nowadays, it is typed and carefully signed by the delivering doctor.
Prince George on his first day at school/SourceRoyal babies bear three or four names, usually those of previous monarchs. They traditionally don't use a last name. Instead, they are known by the name of the royal house or by the country they rule. For instance, Prince George is known at his school as George Cambridge. Other members of the family can go by Windsor or Mountbatten-Windsor when required.
The names of royal babies are not revealed to the public right away. The news is revealed either on the day of leaving the hospital or a few days later. The gender, too, is not disclosed until the baby's arrival.
Kate and William's first appearance after birth/SourceThe royal mother's clothes are carefully chosen for her first public appearance after giving birth. The babies are traditionally wrapped in a merino wool blanket made by the small family business GH Hurt and Son. This century-old company has been making luxurious knitted-lace shawls for three generations of royals. The royal babies usually (but not exclusively) ride a classic Silver Cross stroller, a brand known as the Rolls Royce of baby strollers. The oldest existing stroller dates back to 1877, and generally, they can cost up to 4,000$.
It is a custom that royal families worldwide send gifts to newborns. But the public can also send their own gifts! Prince George received no less than 610 unofficial presents from well-wishers from all around the world.
Queen Elizabeth holding Charles in his christening gown/SourceRoyal babies, just like any other baby in the United Kingdom, have to be registered at the local register office within 42 days of being born.
But before 42 days have passed, royal babies are christened by the official head of the Church of England. This is done using water from the Jordan River, the place where Christians believe Jesus was baptized. On the day of the event, the baby is dressed in a christening gown made of white silk and hand-sewn lace. This gown was made in 2004 as an exact replica of a gown used in 1841 for the christening of Queen Victoria's eldest daughter. No less than 62 royal babies have been christened in this gown, which has been in use for eight generations. There will usually be about 6 godparents announced, all related in one way or another to the Royal family, but none are Royal family members.
William, Kate, and young George with their nanny/Source
