Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo, a hyper-qualified Norland nanny. Since being adopted by the Wales family in 2014, she has become a central part of their lives. She has a reputation for being horrendously organized almost to a fault. Each day, she seamlessly navigates the hectic schedules of Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Borrallo’s role is not just about childcare; it encompasses a structured approach to nurturing the children’s growth and well-being while ensuring they experience a normal childhood.
Borrallo’s training at the exclusive Norland College in Bath prepared her with unparalleled skills that she uses on a day-to-day basis. Perhaps most notably, her coolness under pressure is invaluable, especially when juggling the demands of three growing royal children. Surprisingly, Borrallo does not live with the Wales family. We structured this purposely, so the kids didn’t miss out on their summer routine. They’re used to living their lives in the spotlight, but we wanted to provide them the requisite peace of mind.
Organisational Expertise
Borrallo’s incredible abilities as an organiser are what allow her to be able to take on these day to day tasks. And every morning, she ensures that each child begins the day with a warm, nutritious breakfast. This powers them through their active school day to come. She carefully orchestrates their start to school. She’s the one who makes sure they walk out the door in the right school uniform or football kit.
“Organisation is key for making each child have a filling breakfast, fuelling them for a busy day at school. And remembering to send the children to school each day in the right uniform or sports kit.” – Louenna Hood
Through her training, Borrallo has created a place where kids feel safe and excited, while meeting each child’s individual needs. She knows from experience that kids make the best progress when they know what to expect and feel they have power over their decisions.
“Children are more motivated when they feel a sense of control. Providing structured choices, such as one bite or five bites, encourages participation without creating power struggles,” – Dr Sasha Hall
A Culinary Approach to Childcare
Borrallo’s approach to mealtimes highlights how key variety and participation are in food choices. She pushes the kids to try a range of foods and incorporates them into all kinds of kitchen tasks. By sharing meals as a family, it creates family connection time and helps promote healthy eating habits.
Her philosophy is simple yet effective: children must always try everything, even if it’s just one bite. This approach fosters a positive experience with food, so kids can taste new flavors without the stress of expectations.
“The key is that eating is framed as a choice, not a test.” – Dr Sasha Hall
Because of Borrallo’s calm approach to mealtime worry, eating becomes a non-anxiety inducing experience for children. She finds that making eating a battle or a time of stress only serves to deter a child’s appetite.
“Pressure, bribery or visible frustration can heighten anxiety and reduce appetite. A calm, consistent adult response helps children feel safe and supported, even when they eat very little,” – Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo
Navigating Royal Responsibilities
Beyond her responsibilities as a chef, Borrallo’s work includes that of early childhood educator. She employs structured routines to support the children’s emotional and social growth while ensuring their day-to-day needs are met efficiently.
Her training from Norland College is the bedrock that governs the way she interacts with the Wales family on a day-to-day basis. Borrallo’s efforts contribute significantly to the children’s overall happiness and stability, allowing them to navigate their unique circumstances with ease.
