15 Times Princess Diana Was Just a Regular Mom

Princess Diana has been deeply loved and idolized by people all over the world for decades, both when she was alive and in the years after her death. What's hard to remember, however — amid the glamorous balls, family scandals, and sparkly tiaras — is that, more than anything else, Diana was just a regular mom. It's obvious from her rare interviews and frequent public outings that she adored sons Prince Harry and Prince William and loved doing simple, run-of-the-mill things with them. She was also fiercely protective of their privacy. Diana's daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton, has now followed her example with Prince George and Princess Charlotte. To prove the iconic royal was just like you when it came to her kiddos, keep reading for 15 moments she was a relatable mom . . . you know, minus the literal crown.

01
When She Taught Prince William How to Ride
Getty | Tim Graham

When She Taught Prince William How to Ride

OK, while most children don't have their own pony, pony rides are a childhood staple. Plus, with a mom like Diana, learning to ride must've been a blast.

02
Every Time She Became a Human Jungle Gym
Getty | Tim Graham

Every Time She Became a Human Jungle Gym

Prince Harry was living the good life on top of his mom's shoulders, and we've all been there. Also, check out Harry's adorable overalls . . . such a mom-approved look!

03
When She Was in Charge of Pick-Up and Drop-Off
Getty | Terry Fincher/Princess Diana Archive

When She Was in Charge of Pick-Up and Drop-Off

Royals probably have a handful of people they can have take their kids to and from school, but Diana always enjoyed doing it herself. We wonder if she teared up a little bit on their first days.

04
When She Happily Got Buried in the Sand
Getty | Tim Graham

When She Happily Got Buried in the Sand

If you're a mom and haven't been buried under a large pile of sand by your kids, then you probably haven't taken them to the beach. It's a classic kids vs. mom move when hitting the sand.

05
When Her Lap Was the Most Comfortable Chair
Getty | Tim Graham

When Her Lap Was the Most Comfortable Chair

Whether you're having a bad day or there just isn't anywhere to sit, Mom's lap is the best place to be. Plus, this is always a golden opportunity for one-on-one chats with your little ones.

06
The Time She Helped With Puzzles
Getty | Tim Graham

The Time She Helped With Puzzles

Jigsaw puzzles and playtime go hand in hand for children, and from the looks of it, Diana was a master at both.

07
When She Kept Her Boys Safe on the Ski Lift
Getty | Jayne Fincher/Princess Diana Archive

When She Kept Her Boys Safe on the Ski Lift

Ski lifts are all fun and games until one of your kids tries to jump off before it's time. Even with her own bulky ski gear on, Diana kept a protective arm on Harry and was ready to spring into action at a moment's notice.

08
When She Watched Her Boys Play Outside . . . in Costume
Getty | Tim Graham

When She Watched Her Boys Play Outside . . . in Costume

No matter how hard you try, sometimes your kids just insist on wearing their Halloween costumes in July. And why shouldn't they? Even Diana couldn't help but smile as Harry and William played together on the slides while dressed as little soldiers.

09
When She Decided to Give Into the Matching Outfits Trend
Getty | Jayne Fincher/Princess Diana Archive

When She Decided to Give Into the Matching Outfits Trend

All siblings fall victim to this trend, and let's face it — it's absurd but so darn cute. Just look at their little shorts and matching sweaters!

10
When She Pushed a Stroller Like a Pro
Getty | Princess Diana Archive

When She Pushed a Stroller Like a Pro

Even when it wasn't her child! Yes, before Diana had her two boys, she was a nanny in London, and that's where she perfected her stroller walk.

11
When She Had Adorable Family Photos Taken
Getty | Anwar Hussein

When She Had Adorable Family Photos Taken

Chances are, you probably have an embarrassing and cringe-worthy family photo hanging somewhere in your house. Even Diana couldn't resist getting a few portraits taken.

12
When She Became the Designated Lifeguard
Getty | PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP

When She Became the Designated Lifeguard

"Don't forget to put on sunscreen," we can hear her saying. "Watch out for the big waves!"

13
The Time She Double-Checked Her Son's Work
Getty | Anwar Hussein

The Time She Double-Checked Her Son's Work

Sometimes moms can't help but hover when you're doing your homework, and Diana was no exception.

15
When She "Taught" the Boys How to Play Piano
Getty | Tim Graham

When She "Taught" the Boys How to Play Piano

Or at the very least, clapped when they hit the keys. Not everyone is a natural at a few years old.