Royals Why Every Parent Should Copy Prince William's Special Dad Move with Prince George Inside the signature move that helps William connect with his royal son By Erin Hill Erin Hill Twitter Senior News Editor, PEOPLE People Editorial Guidelines Published on July 21, 2016 02:20PM EDT Share Tweet Pin Email Photo: Chris Jackson/Getty Prince William doesn’t need to spend a ton of time in the gym these days, judging by how many squats he does when Prince George is around! And it’s this signature move that has helped him connect with the birthday boy, who turns 3 on Friday. William is often seen getting down on eye level with little George, which helps the toddler feel safer and more in control, according to experts. “Active listening is one of the most important ways you can send the message, ‘You’re important to me.’ Get down on the child’s level, lean in and make eye contact,” child development expert Gill Connell writes in A Moving Child Is a Learning Child. “Hang on his every word. React with positive verbal and nonverbal cues such as nodding, smiling and hugging. And show broad emotions as he speaks so he knows what it feels like to be understood. These simple messages foster self-esteem in powerful ways while encouraging him to communicate even more.” Prince George Is Turning 3 Years Old! William isn’t the only royal family member who practices this move either! Princess Kate is often seen getting down to her little prince’s level. • Want to keep up with the latest royals coverage? Click here to subscribe to the Royals Newsletter. Even President Barack Obama couldn’t resist making eye-to-eye contact with the future king during his memorable visit to Kensington Palace in April. But William’s parenting style doesn’t come without risks! He was hilariously scolded by grandmother Queen Elizabeth when he crouched down to talk to George while the royal family appeared on the Buckingham Palace balcony during Trooping the Colour in June.