The TODAY host reflects on motherhood as her eldest child reaches a major milestone
Category: Lifestyle
It’s a big day in the Bush Hager household! Jenna Bush Hager, co-host of TODAY, celebrated her daughter Mila's golden birthday on April 13, 2026, as the young girl officially became a teenager. If you’ve ever wondered how quickly time flies, just ask Jenna, who shared her heartfelt reflections on social media about this milestone moment.
Jenna, 44, took to her Instagram Stories to commemorate Mila’s special day with a series of emotional posts. She shared a nostalgic photo of Mila as a newborn, captioning it, "How was this day—that made me a mama—13 years ago???" This heartfelt sentiment resonated with many parents who can relate to the bittersweet feeling of watching their children grow up.
As a parent, Jenna knows the importance of fostering a supportive environment for her children. During a recent episode of TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle, Jenna discussed the pressures that modern teens face, which are markedly different from those of previous generations. "There's this intense pressure on teens to get into the right schools, to be the best athlete, to have great grades. And we didn’t have that. At all. If you were average, you were fine," she said, emphasizing the need for parents to prioritize happiness and kindness over achievement.
To help Mila navigate the challenges of teenage life, Jenna shared some valuable advice. She mentioned a concept inspired by Brené Brown about surrounding oneself with supportive friends. “I always tell Mila to find the people that brag on you, that make you feel good,” Jenna explained. This approach encourages children to seek out relationships that uplift them rather than those that bring them down.
Jenna’s reflections on motherhood were not just limited to advice. She also reminisced about the day Mila was born, recalling how her water broke at her baby shower, nearly a month before her due date. "Everyone freaked out," Jenna recalled, adding that the caterer at the event even threw a paper towel roll and walked out in shock. It’s a memory that surely highlights the unpredictability of parenting!
As Jenna shared more about Mila, she described her eldest child as vibrant, full of spirit, and a fan of both burrata cheese and the medical drama *Grey’s Anatomy*. It’s clear that Mila has her own unique personality, which Jenna cherishes as she transitions into her teenage years.
As Mila embarks on this new chapter, it’s important for parents to recognize the signs of typical teenage behavior versus concerning changes. If your teen exhibits drastic shifts in mood, social withdrawal, or academic decline, it may be time to consult a pediatrician or mental health professional. Keeping an open line of communication can help parents address any issues before they escalate.
Mila’s 13th birthday marks a special moment not just for her, but for Jenna and their entire family. As Jenna continues to navigate the challenges of raising three children, including Poppy, 10, and Hal, 6, she remains committed to instilling values of kindness and resilience in her kids. Mila’s golden birthday is a reminder of the joy and challenges that come with parenting, and as Jenna put it, "I can’t believe it!" Here’s to many more milestones ahead!