Hoda Kotb was all smiles as she marked a major milestone in her daughters’ young lives: their very first day of school. Known for her warmth and genuine enthusiasm both on and off camera, the Today show co-anchor couldn’t resist sharing the excitement with her millions of followers on social media.

In a series of endearing snapshots, she captured the moment her girls toddled off to class, backpacks on tiny shoulders and expressions ranging from curiosity to delight.

The photos, brimming with the innocence and wonder of childhood, immediately resonated with fans, many of whom applauded Kotb for celebrating everyday joys so wholeheartedly.

It feels like only yesterday that Kotb welcomed her first daughter, Hope Catherine, into her life through adoption in February 2017. Three years later, she expanded her family with the adoption of her second daughter, Haley Joy.

Since then, Kotb has woven candid family moments into her public persona, reflecting a modern parenthood that balances raw emotion with resilience.

From bedtime routines shared on Instagram to heartwarming reflections in her book “I Really Needed This Today,” she’s cultivated an image of a mother who embraces both the chaos and the beauty of raising little ones.

Watching both Hope and Haley navigate this new academic journey has been a dream come true for Kotb, who often credits them with changing her life in the most profound ways.

In the photos marking this milestone, the girls donned coordinated outfits in soft pastel hues. Hope, the elder at five years old, wore a light pink dress with lace trim, a whimsical flower headband, and white Mary Jane shoes.

Not to be outdone, three-year-old Haley sported a mint-green jumper and tiny sneakers perfectly suited for playground adventures. Their matching backpacks—one adorned with unicorns, the other with rainbows—were roomy enough to carry crayons, storybooks, and a rolled-up lunchbox.

Kotb wrote in her Instagram caption, “My sweet girls off to make new friends, learn new things, and light up the world one smile at a time. Mama’s heart is full.” Within minutes, the post garnered tens of thousands of likes and comments from well-wishers.

Friends and colleagues joined in the celebration. Jenna Bush Hager, Kotb’s fellow Today show host and close confidante, replied under the post with heart emojis and the remark, “My heart! They’re going to love kindergarten!” Former co-host Kathie Lee Gifford chimed in as well, reminiscing about her own children’s first days and sending blessings for new beginnings.

Fans expressed how they shared Kotb’s excitement, many tagging their own children or posting throwback pictures from their early school days. A common theme in the replies was admiration for Kotb’s openness in sharing these personal moments—something that has become a hallmark of her public image.

Behind the rosy snapshots, we know that the first day of school can be an emotional rollercoaster for parents. Kotb has been candid about her protective instincts and inevitable “mom guilt” when her daughters take bold steps toward independence.

In interviews, she has spoken about how she braces herself each time they achieve another milestone—whether it’s walking, talking, or now boarding the school bus.

Yet, she also acknowledges a deep sense of pride as she watches them grow braver, more curious, and eager to explore the world beyond the comforts of home. That push-and-pull between holding on and letting go resonates with countless moms and dads, making Kotb’s journey feel familiar and relatable.

Beyond the family’s morning routine, school introduces a host of new experiences—arts and crafts, story time, playground friendships, and the chance to develop critical skills like sharing and cooperation.

Kotb highlighted these aspects in a longer caption on social media, noting, “I can’t wait to hear about their favorite parts of the day—what books they read, what games they play, and which new friends make them giggle.”

She plans to keep a dedicated scrapbook filled with the girls’ artwork and handwritten notes from teachers, ensuring that these early school memories are preserved for years to come. It’s a gesture that underscores her belief in celebrating every milestone, big or small.

For her part, Kotb is no stranger to juggling a demanding career with parenting responsibilities. As a prominent face of network television, her schedule often includes early-morning broadcasts, production meetings, and charity commitments.

Yet she has repeatedly reassured fans that she does not aim for perfect balance—rather, she strives for harmony, recognizing that some days will tilt more toward work and others toward family.

On this first morning of school, she managed to film her segments, perfect a remote interview, and still be there in person to give Hope and Haley big hugs goodbye. Moments like these, she says, remind her of her priorities and give her the energy she needs to face a full day on set.

Kotb’s public sharing of these intimate moments also sparks conversation about modern motherhood. In a world driven by polished social media feeds and highlight reels, her candid approach—acknowledging both the tears and the triumphs—offers a refreshing dose of reality.

She’s spoken about how her losses and struggles, including fertility challenges, have shaped her into a more empathetic parent. By normalizing the ups and downs of parenthood, Kotb fosters a sense of community among moms and dads who, like her, navigate the complexities of nurturing children while pursuing personal and professional goals.

As the first day of school unfolds, Kotb plans to collect stories from her daughters about everything they encounter: from finger-paint masterpieces to lunchtime laughter with classmates.

She’s even considering a special “first day” tradition—perhaps a homemade chocolate chip pancake breakfast or a mini-photo shoot in the front yard—to commemorate each academic year.

Whatever form it takes, it’s clear that Kotb views these traditions as more than just photo ops; they’re tangible reminders of children growing up, learning, and stepping confidently into the world.

Looking ahead, Kotb and her daughters are poised to create countless memories in the years to come—from holiday pageants and art fairs to field trips and class parties.

Through every phase, Kotb has vowed to remain present, involved, and enthusiastic, whether she’s chaperoning a museum visit or cheering on a spelling bee.

For fans who’ve followed her journey from single mom through two adoptions to Today show star and best-selling author, watching Hope and Haley thrive feels like sharing in a collective celebration.

Kotb’s story reminds us all that life’s most meaningful moments often lie in these firsts: the first steps, the first words, and now, the first chapters of their educational journey.

As evening falls on this momentous day, Kotb will likely settle in for bedtime stories, asking her daughters about their new teachers, the friends they made, and maybe even showcasing a finger painting or two.

Later, she might reflect on screen next to her Today show colleagues, glowing with pride as she recounts her girls’ big adventures. In doing so, she’ll continue to share the joy of parenthood with a world eager to celebrate alongside her—and serve as a gentle reminder that sometimes, the sweetest snapshots are the ones that capture life’s simplest, most heartfelt moments.