Summer days drift away as Belgian youngsters head back to school

Going back to school after the summer holidays is a challenge for most youngsters, and the young Belgian royals are no exception.

But Crown Princess Mathilde helped ease her children – Elisabeth, Eleonore and Gabriel – back into term time as she grabbed hold of their hands for the school run.

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Onlookers must have noticed a slight air of apprehension about the little ones, although the trio put on a brave face for waiting photographers and well-wishers.

And their mum's beaming smile was enough to spur on the young royals, who got back into their routine after a summer of fun.

Just the day before, their father Prince Philippe had gathered his family in the gardens of Laeken Castle for a photocall.

And back in August, the family treated their brood to a trip to London for the 2012 Olympics.