“‘Absolutely Not’: Hoda Kotb’s Surprising Parenting Moment Sparks a Nationwide Conversation .QN”

Hoda Kotb is keeping parenting real — even when it means saying no. The Today show co-host opened up about a hilarious yet thought-provoking moment with her 6-year-old daughter, Haley, on TODAY with Hoda & Jenna, revealing that her little girl recently asked to wear a crop top. “She wanted a midriff!” Hoda told Jenna Bush Hager, recalling how Haley lifted her shirt halfway and giggled, leaving Hoda both amused and alarmed. “You want your kids to feel good in their own skin,” she said, “but isn’t that a weird thing?”

The seasoned journalist admitted she quickly shut it down — “No, we’re not doing that” — while reflecting on how parenting today often means giving kids choices, only to realize some lines still need to be drawn. “Sometimes it has gotta be no,” she confessed.

Hoda’s candid moment comes as she continues to balance motherhood and self-reflection. The 58-year-old mom of two — who adopted daughters Haley and Hope with ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman — has been open about the joys and challenges of raising her girls later in life. Earlier this year, Hoda revealed that daughter Hope had spent time in the ICU due to a health issue, an experience that left her deeply emotional and grateful. “Even when she’s not feeling good, she’s still giving everything away,” Hoda said at the time, recalling Hope’s sweetness.

The star also spoke on Bethenny Frankel’s Just B podcast about her perspective as an older mom, sharing how she often thinks about her future with her kids. “I add 30 to Haley and 30 to Hope,” she explained. “And I think to myself, won’t that be spectacular? I can do that.”

For Hoda, motherhood isn’t just about milestones — it’s about the everyday moments that shape her daughters’ confidence, values, and understanding of the world. While Haley may have been disappointed about the crop top ban, Hoda’s firm but loving approach struck a chord with parents everywhere who are navigating the same tug-of-war between freedom and guidance.

From heartfelt parenting confessions to her steady presence on TODAY, Hoda continues to remind fans why she’s one of the most relatable moms in the spotlight. Her honest take on raising strong, grounded daughters — in an age where growing up too fast seems inevitable — proves that even media icons face the same messy, funny, and heartwarming moments at home.

As for Haley’s crop top dreams? For now, it’s a definite “not happening.” But in the Kotb household, every “no” comes with love — and maybe a little laughter, too.