Jenna Bush Hager said her 11-year-old daughter Mila has been worrying her and her husband lately with some unusual behavior at school: ‘She keeps saying “the ick” all the time.’

Jenna Bush Hager revealed that her 11-year-old daughter Mila’s recent behavior at school has been causing concern. Mila’s frequent use of the phrase “the ick” has sparked curiosity, leading Jenna and her husband to question what it means and how it reflects her social life and emotional state.

Jenna Bush Hager Shares Parenting Challenges with Daughter Mila

Jenna Bush Hager, a beloved co-host of Today, recently opened up about a parenting moment that many families can relate to. During a candid discussion on the show, Jenna revealed that her 11-year-old daughter, Mila, has been exhibiting unusual behavior at school, causing her and her husband to feel both curious and concerned.

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The specific issue? Mila has started frequently saying “the ick” to describe situations or even people, a phrase that has left Jenna scratching her head. “She keeps saying it all the time, and I have no idea where it came from,” Jenna shared. “It’s got me wondering if it’s just a phase or something deeper.”

This anecdote, while humorous, highlights the complex and sometimes confusing journey of parenting preteens as they navigate their growing independence and social awareness.

What Does “The Ick” Mean to Preteens?

For those unfamiliar, “the ick” is a popular slang term that has gained traction among younger generations. It refers to a sudden feeling of dislike or discomfort, often related to something trivial or seemingly unimportant. While the term originated in dating contexts, it has now expanded into broader use among kids and teens, who often apply it to describe anything from annoying habits to cringe-worthy moments.

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Jenna admitted that she initially dismissed Mila’s repeated use of the term as a quirky phase. However, after hearing it used in various contexts, she began to question its underlying meaning. “It’s almost like she’s using it as a way to express herself, but I’m not sure what she’s trying to communicate,” Jenna explained.

Experts suggest that such slang often serves as a way for children to establish their identity and connect with peers. However, its overuse might signal underlying concerns, such as struggles with self-expression or challenges in navigating social dynamics at school.

Parenting Through Preteen Phases: Jenna’s Approach

Jenna Bush Hager is no stranger to sharing insights into her family life, often using her platform to connect with other parents experiencing similar challenges. In this case, she revealed how she and her husband have approached Mila’s behavior with curiosity and care.

“We’ve started asking her open-ended questions about her day and what she means when she says ‘the ick,'” Jenna shared. “Sometimes, it’s just about a funny moment at school, but other times, it seems like she’s using it to mask something that bothers her.”

This approach reflects an important parenting strategy: maintaining open communication without judgment. By showing genuine interest in Mila’s feelings, Jenna and her husband are fostering an environment where their daughter feels safe to share her thoughts and emotions.

Additionally, Jenna acknowledged the importance of balancing involvement with giving Mila the space she needs to grow. “It’s a tricky age. You want to be there for them, but you also have to let them figure things out on their own,” she said.

Insights from Experts: What Parents Can Learn

Parenting experts emphasize that preteens often adopt new language and behaviors as part of their developmental process. While phrases like “the ick” might seem trivial, they can offer valuable insights into a child’s social world and emotional state.

According to child psychologist Dr. Emily Carter, parents should pay attention to how and when such terms are used. “Slang can be a window into a child’s social interactions. If a term like ‘the ick’ is used humorously, it’s likely harmless. But if it’s tied to negative experiences, such as teasing or exclusion, it might indicate a deeper issue,” she explained.

Dr. Carter also suggests that parents use these moments as opportunities to connect. “Instead of dismissing the behavior, ask questions and show interest. This helps build trust and allows you to better understand your child’s perspective.”

For parents concerned about potential issues, she recommends keeping an eye on other signs, such as changes in mood, academic performance, or friendships.

Jenna Bush Hager’s story about her daughter Mila is a relatable reminder that parenting is full of surprises. While Mila’s use of “the ick” may seem like a small issue, it has opened the door for meaningful conversations and a deeper understanding of her growing world.

By embracing open communication, Jenna and her husband are navigating this phase with curiosity and care, setting a powerful example for parents everywhere. Whether it’s slang, social dynamics, or other preteen challenges, these moments offer opportunities to strengthen the parent-child bond and guide children through the complexities of growing up.

Have you encountered similar challenges with your children? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! Let’s keep the conversation going and support one another on this parenting journey.

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