Prince Archie is "developing independence and patience" with his new hobby, a commentator has claimed.
The six-year-old was spotted taking up a popular Californian pastime last weekend - attending surfing lessons at a local beach near his home in Montecito.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's son appears to be following in the footsteps of his father, Prince Harry, who surfed at Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch in California in 2024.
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Prince Archie 'developing independence and patience' as young royal takes up new hobby
|INSTAGRAM / @MEGHAN
Dr Amanda Gummer, Chair of the Association of Play Industries and Founder of FUNdamentally Children, said surfing offers a range of developmental benefits for children.
She said: “Surfing gives children a brilliant all-round workout. It helps them build strength, especially in their arms, legs, and core, and also supports balance, coordination, and motor skills.
“Learning to paddle and stand on the board develops muscle control and body awareness, while time spent in the sea boosts swimming confidence and general water safety.
"It's a great way for kids to stay active and healthy in an exciting, engaging way.”
Prince Harry previously showcased his impressive surfing skills in a remarkable video filmed at Kelly Slater's Surf Ranch in central California
|As well as physical fitness, Dr Gummer said surfing can help children build resilience and confidence.
She continued to tell Hello!: “Surfing helps them focus, stay present, and manage their emotions. It builds resilience, as learning to surf involves a lot of falling off and getting back up again.
"Children feel a real sense of achievement when they catch a wave, which can do wonders for their confidence.”
She added that Archie’s interest in a sport like surfing may say something about his personality.
Prince Archie frequently appears on Meghan Markle's Instagram
|INSTAGRAM / @MEGHAN
“If a child chooses a solo sport like surfing, it often means they enjoy their own company and are comfortable setting personal challenges. Surfing can help children develop independence, patience, and self-motivation.
“Although it might look like a solitary activity, there’s still plenty of opportunity to connect with others through group lessons or spending time on the beach with friends and family.
"It’s a sport that offers both freedom and community, which can be a perfect mix for some children.”
Archie’s lessons may also reflect a growing bond with Prince Harry.
Meghan Markle made a single social media post to celebrate Archie's birthday, sharing a picture of him looking out at a sunset
|INSTAGRAM / @MEGHAN
Dr Gummer explained: “Children often take an interest in the things their parents love, and this can be a really meaningful way to connect.
"Archie taking up surfing, just like his dad, suggests they share a sense of adventure and a love of the outdoors.
“It shows that Archie looks up to Harry and wants to explore the world in a similar way. Activities like this can help strengthen their bond and create lasting memories, while also passing on values around health, fun, and appreciation of nature.”