Here’s a heartwarming story from the world of parenting. Jenna Bush Hager recently revealed that her 4-year-old son, Hal, has officially made the switch from his crib to a big kid bed. The Today With Hoda & Jenna cohost shared this adorable milestone during an episode on Thursday, January 18, giving fans a glimpse into the sweet moments of raising her growing family.
Hoda Kotb Celebrates Hal's Big Moment
Co-host Hoda Kotb couldn’t help but marvel at Hal’s growth. "Sweet Hal. Hal’s been in a crib since birth until about a week ago," she told the audience, highlighting just how significant this change truly is. It’s not just about swapping furniture—it’s a symbol of Hal stepping into the next phase of childhood.
Jenna Reflects on Her Own Role in Hal's Journey
Jenna, now 42, shared some personal reflections during the segment. "Yes, so, I was still— I was quarantined. I was pushed away because I had COVID," she explained, adding with a laugh, "I was pushed away into my room watching all that was on television." It turns out that sometimes even the best-laid plans can be disrupted by unexpected circumstances. But life—and parenting—goes on, and Hal’s transition continued without a hitch.
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It wasn’t Jenna who ultimately convinced Hal to make the switch, though. That honor went to her husband, Henry Hager. "So Henry heard him say, 'Daddy! Daddy!' and then he went in and he said, 'I’m ready.' And Henry said, 'You’re ready for what?' And he said, 'I need to move into my big boy bed,'" Jenna recounted, smiling as she shared the sweet moment.
A Bed Waiting for Its Moment
As it turns out, Jenna and Henry were already prepared for this milestone. "It’s been in the room for about two years. And there he is," Jenna said, referring to the bed that had patiently waited for Hal to embrace it. But here’s the kicker: the entire process happened without Jenna’s direct involvement. "It all happened without his mother’s help. And leaves me to wonder if I’m too overbearing when it comes just to him—the others," she admitted with a mix of humor and self-awareness.
Jenna isn’t just a mom to Hal; she’s also raising two daughters, Mila and Poppy. Back in October 2023, she had openly discussed Hal still sleeping in his crib on an episode of Today. When she asked the audience if it was "normal," the crew behind the camera playfully shouted, "No!" It’s moments like these that remind us how relatable Jenna is, sharing both the joys and challenges of parenting.
Hoda Offers Words of Wisdom
Hoda, now 59, chimed in with some sage advice for parents navigating similar transitions. "It is funny because sometimes when we are out of the picture, we think no changes are going to happen without our urging," she said, reminding us that kids often surprise us with their readiness for new challenges.
Jenna also opened up about the pressure she felt from being mom-shamed on live television a few months ago. "Because y’all had shamed me, and really, the whole community had shamed me over the fact that he was in a crib," she reflected. "You all had shamed me a little. And said, 'Hal, I think it’s time. Some friends have said it’s time.' And he was not ready, he was scared." It’s a powerful reminder that every child grows at their own pace, and as parents, we need to honor that journey.
