Princess Anne’s son-in-law, Mike, and granddaughter, Mia, proved how close they are during the Platinum Jubilee Pageant in 2022

Mike Tindall and Mia Tindall hugging© Getty Images

It isn’t every day that Zara and Mike Tindall head out in public with their children, but the Platinum Jubilee Pageant in 2022 was a historic occasion. Mia Tindall, who is now 12, joined her parents at the event celebrating the 70th anniversary of the accession of Queen Elizabeth II and was seen sharing a number of lighthearted interactions with her father.

Retired rugby star Mike was seen grinning as Mia sat on his lap with her hand around his neck. In another moment, the son-in-law of Princess Anne attempted to converse with former prime minister Boris Johnson, but Mia was keen to distract her dad. Mike jokingly put a pillow up to Mia’s face. They later played rough and tumble with the youngster gripping her dad’s head in jest.

Mike Tindall holding pillow up to Mia while talking with Boris Johnson
© Getty Images
Mike Tindall put his playful bond with Mia on display while talking with Boris Johnson

While Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, eight, sat in front of them with the Prince and Princess of Wales, Mia also went to her dad for a cuddle.

Mike and Mia’s close bond

HCPC-registered senior education and child psychologist Dr Sasha Hall tells us that these small moments offer a real insight into Mike and Mia’s relationship.

“Public displays of affection between parents and children, particularly within royal families, can offer a meaningful glimpse into the nature of their bond. In the case of Mike Tindall and his daughter Mia, the images suggest a relationship that is both close and playful,” she tells us.

royals in stands at the Platinum Jubilee Pageant
© Getty Images
Mia was just eight year old at the time of the Platinum Jubilee Pageant

“The ease of their physical interaction, from cuddling to more light-hearted, even rough and tumble moments, typically points to a child who feels secure, confident, and comfortable in their parent’s presence.”

An emotionally available father

Dr Sasha also says that this kind of playfulness is often a strong indicator of emotional availability. She explains: “When a parent is willing to engage at the child’s level in a relaxed and spontaneous way, it can support a sense of safety and connection, while also encouraging the child’s confidence and self-expression.”

Mike and Mia Tindall play fighting
© Getty Images
Mike and Mia Tindall were seen play fighting during the Platinum Pageant in 2022

With his joking behaviour with his daughter, Mike, who married into the royal family, reflects a generational shift in parenting styles, including within royal circles, according to the psychologist.

“There has been a move away from more formal, reserved approaches towards ones that prioritise emotional connection, responsiveness, and visible warmth. It also highlights how fatherhood, in particular, has evolved, with greater emphasis on being hands-on, present, and openly affectionate.”