The Duchess of Cambridge beamed as the little girl rushed forward to hug her around her waist after the 36-year-old arrived at the forest school in Paddington.
The mother has been on maternity leave for five months, with her visit to Paddington Recreation Ground her first official solo event since giving birth to Prince Louis in April.
And one excited little pupil saw her chance to give the duchess a warm welcome – running in to hug her as she stood up from greeting the kids.
Kate, clearly surprised, laughed as the girl gripped her arms around her waist, and a second rushed in to make it a royal group hug.
The duchess, wearing a khaki green Fjällräven jacket, a silk Joseph and Penelope Chilvers shirt, and riding boots, is today visiting Sayers Croft Forest School and Wildlife Garden to see how it is helping children's emotional and physical well-being.
It was a charming start to Kate's first official solo event since welcoming third child Louis into the world.
And the seasoned royal even closed her car door herself – with a little help – after fans went crazy that her sister-in-law Meghan Markle was last week seen doing the same.
Kate this afternoon joined in with sessions to hear from instructors about the benefits of learning outside.
And she was left in stitches as one student promised there would be "no boring bits" on the tour and as they planted seeds in the Forest Garden.
The duchess replied: "This is so cool, I can't wait to see it."
The forest school, which had more than 5,500 visits by schoolchildren from across Westminster and neighbouring boroughs last year, gives inner city children the chance to engage with the natural world.
Although the duchess has appeared at events such as the RAF centenary, Trooping the Colour and Wimbledon, and celebrated the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's wedding, this is her first official solo engagement since Louis' arrival.
The mum has previously spoken about her love for the outdoors, making today's visit the perfect fit for her return.
Visiting a primary school in South West London last November to see its gardening projects, she told pupils she had "fond memories" of being outdoors as a child.
She also said she was passing that passion on to her own children.
The duchess, who supports a number of mental health charities and initiatives, is passionate about offering children early social and emotional support.
It's been a big year for Kate Middleton and the royal family, having welcomed several new members into the Firm this year.
Meghan Markle married Prince Harry in a lavish ceremony in Windsor in May.
Kate will also become an aunt when her sister Pippa Middleton gives birth to her first child.
Pippa, who married financier James Matthews, 42, is expected to welcome a child this month.
Kate was the first person after Pippa’s husband, James Matthews, to hear the good news.
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