Prince Albert of Monaco has ensured his children feel supported and protected at royal engagements in the absence of their mother Princess Charlene, a body language expert has claimed. Albert, 63, has made two public appearances with six-year-old twins Jacques and Gabriella since Charlene, 43, was admitted to a treatment facility, and paid particular attention to them at both.

Protective: Prince Albert of Monaco has ensured his children feel protected at royal engagements in the absence of their mother, a body language expert has claimed. 'It wouldn’t be unusual for a father to step up to the plate with his children while a mother is unwell or absent like this but for a royal male of Albert's generation this tactile and very focused behavior might not have been a given,' body language expert Judi James told FEMAIL. Pictured, placing a hand on Gabriella's back during an engagement this week.

By their side: Albert joined his six-year-old twins at a tree-planting event in Monaco this week and stood behind them in a show of support, body language expert Judi James noted.

Undivided attention: His behavior was similarly attentive at the Monaco National Day celebrations last Friday. When Gabriella spoke to him, he ensured he only had eyes for her.

Watchful eye: Albert paid close attention to his children at the National Day celebrations. Jacques and Gabriella held up heartbreaking notes to their mother Princess Charlene.

Leaning down to speak to them: Judi explained small signals like this show a deep connection.

Tactile displays: Gabriella reached out to touch her father ahead of the National Day celebrations. Judi said such affection is not a given for a male royal of Albert's generation.

Playful moment: The bond between the father and his children was also evident on the day Charlene returned from South Africa. The royal couple invited photographers to capture her arrival at the palace. The children hung onto Albert like he was a 'human swing' to play with.

Changing feelings? This is a shift from the body language demonstrated earlier this year when Albert and the children flew to South Africa to visit Charlene, when they 'clustered' around their mother (above). In Monaco last week they 'clustered' around their father.