Kate Middletonwas ready for her close-up during her first solo engagement of the new year.

The Princess of Wales, 41, visitedFoxcubs Nurseryin Luton on Wednesday morning, a top-rated childcare and early education center offering free programming. Kate spent time with the adorable attendees (who range in age from 2 to 5) and spoke with teachers about the formative nature of the early years, a key priority of her royal work.

Justin Tallis - WPA Pool/Getty

Catherine, Princess of Wales poses for a selfie with parents waiting to collect their children as she leaves after visiting the Foxcubs Nursery on January 18, 2023 in Luton, England.

Aside fromrare instances, the royals have traditionally not engaged in photo-taking with well-wishers at public events, but the stance seems to have relaxed in recent months.

Last week, Princess Kate andPrince Williamboth smiled for selfies during theirfirst joint appearanceof 2023. After officially opening the new Royal Liverpool University Hospital, they took selfies with around 20 hospital staff, volunteers, and visitors.

Catherine, Princess of Wales talks with parents during her visit to Foxcubs Nursery on January 18, 2023 in Luton, England.

“They were so welcoming. They were so warm and friendly,” ophthalmic imaging technician Amber Otto, who caught up with the couple and took selfies with both Kate and William, toldPEOPLE. “Even when they were being rushed out, they made sure they made time for everybody.”

Amber Otto and Prince William.Amber Otto and Prince William.PHOTO: Amber OttoPHOTO: Amber Otto

Amber Otto and Prince William.

Amber Otto meets the Princess and Prince of Wales at Royal Liverpool University Hospital

Amber Otto meets the Princess and Prince of Wales at Royal Liverpool University Hospital

Amber Otto and Prince William.PHOTO: Amber OttoPHOTO: Amber Otto

“The Princess asked me what I did,” she added. “They were talking to as many people as possible.”

According to theroyal family’s website, there are no obligatory codes of behavior when greeting members of the royal family. While the site offers guidance on how to bow and curtsy, nothing is said about selfies.

PAUL GROVER/POOL/AFP via Getty

Britain’s Prince Charles, Prince of Wales (R) shakes hands and poses for selfie photographs with members of the public in Walworth in south London during a visit to The Prince’s Trust Kickstart supported young people at JD Sports on May 11, 2022.

Can’t get enough ofPEOPLE’s Royals coverage?Sign up for our free Royals newsletterto get the latest updates onKate Middleton,Meghan Markleand more!

ThoughKing Charles IIIhasn’t overtly posed for selfie-style photos, he doesn’t seem to mind when well-wishers flip their cellphone cameras in his direction, as one fan did during a walkabout in London last year.

source: people.com