Duchess of Cambridge continues 24-hour UK tour with baby sensory class in Cardiff

The Duchess of Cambridge arrived in Cardiff this morning on the latest leg of her project to support the early years development of children.

The mum-of-three visited the Ely and Careau Children’s Centre as part of her 24-hour tour of the UK to launch '5 big questions on the under 5s', where she attended a baby sensory class.

Appearing to be in great spirits, the Duchess looked chic in a classic camel coat which she wore over a black roll neck jumper, leopard print midi-skirt and high heel boots.

The Limited Edition cashmere and wool coat is believed to be by Spanish brand Massimmo Dutti and is currently on sale for £149.

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Today’s visit will see the Duchess witness the sensory class and learn more about the support that parents receive at the Centre.

Baby sensory classes are aimed at parents of babies and are designed to enhance early years learning and development through exploratory sensory play.

They also help parents to spend quality time with their babies in a safe and nurturing environment which can help encourage bonding.

There are benefits for toddlers of attending toddler sensory classes too.

According to experts classes can help encourage the development of a wide range of social and physical skills.

These new skills can be anything from building new friendships to climbing, rolling and bouncing and also navigating obstacles, developing creativity and intellect etc.

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Yesterday details were released of the Duchess’ 24-hour tour of the UK, visiting Birmingham, London, Cardiff and Surrey, to launch the '5 big questions on the under 5s' initiative.

The online poll, conducted by Ipsos Mori on behalf of the Royal Foundation, is thought to be the biggest survey of its kind and aims to encourage a conversation about the importance of the early childhood years.

The Duchess began her solo tour in Birmingham yesterday, as she began the task of raising awareness of the poll.

Commenting on the initiative at Birmingham's science museum, she said: “As a parent, I know how much we cherish the future health and happiness of our children.

“I want to hear the key issues affecting families and communities so I can focus my work on where it is needed most. My ambition is to provide lasting change for generations to come.”

Speaking about the importance of the early years, the Duchess continued: “Parents, carers and families are at the heart of caring for children in the formative years, so that is why I really want to listen to them. The early years are more crucial for future health and happiness than any other moment in our lifetime.”

Kate’s scheduled appearance in the Welsh capital came hours after the Duchess of Sussex made a surprise post on social media.

The Duchess shared some touching pictures of a secret visit she made to a British animal welfare charity.

The mother-of-one visited the London-based organisation earlier this month before the couple announced they would be stepping back from their roles as senior members of the royal family and relocating to Canada.