Kate Middleton Rocks a Pink Power Suit While Championing an Important (and Deeply Personal) Cause

The research the duchess highlighted found that nine out of ten people agree that the early years of childhood are crucial in shaping their lives, while less than a fifth recognize the importance of a child’s development in the first five years of life.

“We know that only a minority of people understand the critical importance of the first five years of a child's life, and this is what we really do need to change,” the duchess said during the discussion. “If we can teach children to manage their emotions and feelings at a young age, it will help them avoid having to turn to addiction, self-harm or suicide even in later life.”

She added, “Together we have a huge opportunity here to help shape the future.”

Various snapshots taken at the event were later posted to the Cambridge’s joint Instagram account. “Today was another opportunity to highlight the unique importance of the first five years and the significant impact it has on our later life outcomes,” the caption read. “This can be a complex issue but we have the opportunity to help shape the future.”