
Parents decode teen texts—and can’t stop laughing
From banning parents at graduation to Pepsi complaints, these teen texts have parents laughing—and nodding—in recognition.
A recent viral video by TikTok creator "The Leighton Show" has captured the attention of parents and educators nationwide, offering a humorous glimpse into the often-baffling world of teenager texts during the back-to-school season. The video, titled "Teenager Texts: Back to School Edition," features content creator Chip Leighton reading a series of comical messages, purportedly from real-life teenage interactions with their parents.The compilation showcases a range of relatable scenarios, from a child asking their parent to "go with my story" if the school nurse calls, to a student expressing disdain for a college that "only serve Pepsi products." Other texts include pleas for parents not to attend graduation ("There won't be any other parents there") and instructions to "park where no one can see you" for pick-up. "It's a universal experience for parents," commented Dr. Eleanor Vance, a child psychologist. "The blend of independence and continued reliance, often communicated through these terse, sometimes dramatic texts, is a hallmark of adolescence. Videos like this provide a much-needed moment of shared laughter and understanding." The video's lighthearted approach to the challenges of parenting teenagers has resonated widely, accumulating over 144,600 views and 14,300 likes since its upload on August 19, 2025. This trend highlights the power of social media in fostering community and shared experiences among parents navigating the complexities of modern family life.
From banning parents at graduation to Pepsi complaints, these teen texts have parents laughing—and nodding—in recognition.