YouTube gave this autistic teen a voice. The government is about to mute it
Bec Ridley's son spent years searching for where he fit in. He finally found it online.
But for kids like him, that digital world is about to be unplugged for good.
Under sweeping new laws coming into effect this December, YouTube will be added to the Australian government's ban on social media platforms for under-16s.
But for Hudson, 15, it doesn't take into account his reality.
'On a piece of paper from a psychiatrist, he had been diagnosed as being severely impaired socially,' Bec told Kidspot
'But online he came alive.'
Hudson with his mum and siblings. Image: Supplied
Want to join the family? Sign up to our Kidspot newsletter for more stories like this.
"He's almost at 100,000 subscribers"
Hudson has been diagnosed with autism.
For much of his early life, socialising in person felt impossible. The world moved too slowly for his brain, too confusingly for his heart.
But behind a screen he found something that had always eluded him: connection.
'You've got a child who, in a room, doesn't want to be seen and online, he wants all the attention,' the mum of six said.
At just 14 years old, Hudson logged on for the first time.
What began as a quiet creative outlet quickly turned into something bigger.
He shared gaming content, built a community, and connected in a powerful way.
Within two years, he was climbing global rankings, earning income, and even helping other kids learn to play.
'He's almost at 100,000 subscribers,' Bec said.
'He's earning money, he's strategic about how he grows the channel, and he even did a school presentation about his analytics. He's thriving.'
How to talk to your kids about the YouTube ban
Start conversations early, before the December ban comes into effect.
Find a 'power-down' strategy that suits your family
Use this as a teachable moment to build healthy, lifelong digital habits
Have regular, open conversations about online content and usage
Replace screen time with family activities or hobbies
Create a safe, judgment-free space so kids feel comfortable sharing concerns
Keep routines consistent to reduce resistance and tech tantrums
For more info and support, visit esafety.gov.au
Source: Carol Markie-Dadds, Triple P International Country Director
RELATED: Why banning YouTube will hurt curious kids like mine
"Critical for different learning styles"
It's a far cry from the parent Bec once imagined she'd be.
'I didn't even have a telly for 10 years,' she joked.
'I was a hippie-dippy homeschooling mum.'
Screens weren't part of the plan. But when Hudson expressed his desire to be on YouTube, Bec made the decision to let him try.
The skills he's gained from YouTube are now showing up in the real world, too.
'It's built his confidence. It's grown him as an individual,' she said.
But as the government moves to tighten control over young people's access to social media, Bec worries kids like Hudson will be left behind.
'It would be really critical for different learning styles,' she said.
'I do believe everyone's brains are built so differently.'
Trending in Parenting
Stop criticising grandparents giving you free childcare
I'm scared the YouTube ban will crush my son's curiosity
RELATED: My daughter wants a YouTube channel – I'm really not sure
For Hudson, YouTube has been a tool for expression, education, and connection.
While many kids might use the platform to pass time, for neurodivergent children it can offer something far more profound: belonging.
And cutting the cord, Bec warns, could come at a cost. Especially to the next generation of content creators, critical thinkers, and kids still trying to find where they fit.
'I think it would be very detrimental for my son to lose this tool. And though he would still be great, YouTube helps him excel to this next version of himself,' she explained.
Hudson, who once struggled to speak up in real-life settings, is now mentoring others, tracking data, and exploring future job opportunities, all through a platform that may soon be off-limits to kids like him, and the kids who come after.
'Not everyone fits the same cookie cutter at all,' Bec pointed out.
Originally published as YouTube gave this autistic teen a voice. The government is about to mute it
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Courier-Mail
4 hours ago
- Courier-Mail
Junkyard singer David Roach dies aged 59 after aggressive cancer battle
Don't miss out on the headlines from Entertainment. Followed categories will be added to My News. Rock star David Roach has died at the age of 59 after battling cancer. The musician passed away on August 2, according to a post shared by the hard rock band Junkyard, The Sun reported. Roach, who co-founded the rock band in 1987, died just two weeks after he married his wife Jennifer. He was battling a form of aggressive squamous cell carcinoma that affected his head, neck and throat, according to a GoFundMe fundraiser. Junkyard announced his death in a social media post. Never miss the latest entertainment news from Australia and around the world — download the app direct to your phone. Rock star David Roach has died at the age of 59 after battling cancer. Picture: GoFundMe Roach co-founded the band Junkyard in 1987. Picture: GoFundMe 'It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of David Roach,' the band said. 'After a courageous battle with cancer, David passed away peacefully last night at home, in the loving arms of his wife. 'He was a gifted artist, performer, songwriter, and singer – but above all, a devoted father, husband, and brother. 'Our thoughts are with the entire Roach family and everyone who loved him.' In June, Junkyard shared a social media post explaining that Roach's cancer was 'aggressive'. Roach and Jennifer were said to be shattered by his diagnosis. 'It's devastating and life-altering, and we're trying to navigate through the emotions and uncertainty that come with it,' she wrote on social media. 'David is showing such incredible strength and resilience, and even in the midst of this darkness, he's still managing to keep his sense of humour. It's a reminder of how amazing he is. 'But we know this journey ahead will be extremely tough, David made it clear he is not giving up hope and we're going to need all of your love and prayers.' The singer was battling an aggressive form of squamous cell carcinoma. Picture: Instagram Roach performed alongside the guitarist Chris Gates, bassist Clay Anthony, drummer Patrick Muzingo, and guitarist Brian Baker between 1987 and 1992. The band performed in live shows in the early 2000s, and released what was their first studio album in more than 20 years in 2017. Tributes have been paid to Roach following his death. Award-winning composer Jake Curtis Allard said Roach was an 'excellent' singer. Music stars Chips Z'Nuff and Danko Jones have also sent their condolences. Celebrity deaths Start Remembering the famous faces we lost in 2025 Squamous cell carcinoma is usually not life-threatening, but if left untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body. It is a common type of skin cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic. Nodules, which are bumps on the skin, are a symptom of the cancer. This bump can be the same colour as the skin or different. Other symptoms include sores inside the mouth, or a sore on old skin. Health chiefs urge anyone with symptoms to book an appointment with their local doctor if a sore doesn't heal within two months. Squamous cell carcinoma is the second-most common type of skin cancer in both the UK and US. Around 1.8 million cases of squamous cell carcinoma are reported across the US, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. This article originally appeared on The Sun and was reproduced with permission Originally published as Junkyard singer David Roach dies aged 59 after aggressive cancer battle
The Advertiser
6 hours ago
- The Advertiser
Margot Robbie in talks to star in Tim Burton's new film
Margot Robbie is in talks to star in Tim Burton's Attack Of The Fifty Foot Woman remake. The 35-year-old Australian actress is being considered for the lead role in the director's upcoming movie for Warner Bros and she would also produce the film through her LuckyChap production company, according to The InSneider. The 1958 movie is a science-fiction horror story which follows a wealthy heiress who grows into a giant after an alien encounter and goes on to take revenge on her cheating husband. It was reported last year that Burton would direct and produce the remake, with Gone Girl author Gillian Flynn writing the script. Andrew Mittman and Tommy Harper are also producing with Kai Dolbashian as executive producer. However, Variety reports that Flynn exited the project due to other commitments after writing a first draft of the screenplay. The production team is searching for a new writer. Robbie's involvement would depend on the final version of the script. Margot Robbie is in talks to star in Tim Burton's Attack Of The Fifty Foot Woman remake. The 35-year-old Australian actress is being considered for the lead role in the director's upcoming movie for Warner Bros and she would also produce the film through her LuckyChap production company, according to The InSneider. The 1958 movie is a science-fiction horror story which follows a wealthy heiress who grows into a giant after an alien encounter and goes on to take revenge on her cheating husband. It was reported last year that Burton would direct and produce the remake, with Gone Girl author Gillian Flynn writing the script. Andrew Mittman and Tommy Harper are also producing with Kai Dolbashian as executive producer. However, Variety reports that Flynn exited the project due to other commitments after writing a first draft of the screenplay. The production team is searching for a new writer. Robbie's involvement would depend on the final version of the script. Margot Robbie is in talks to star in Tim Burton's Attack Of The Fifty Foot Woman remake. The 35-year-old Australian actress is being considered for the lead role in the director's upcoming movie for Warner Bros and she would also produce the film through her LuckyChap production company, according to The InSneider. The 1958 movie is a science-fiction horror story which follows a wealthy heiress who grows into a giant after an alien encounter and goes on to take revenge on her cheating husband. It was reported last year that Burton would direct and produce the remake, with Gone Girl author Gillian Flynn writing the script. Andrew Mittman and Tommy Harper are also producing with Kai Dolbashian as executive producer. However, Variety reports that Flynn exited the project due to other commitments after writing a first draft of the screenplay. The production team is searching for a new writer. Robbie's involvement would depend on the final version of the script. Margot Robbie is in talks to star in Tim Burton's Attack Of The Fifty Foot Woman remake. The 35-year-old Australian actress is being considered for the lead role in the director's upcoming movie for Warner Bros and she would also produce the film through her LuckyChap production company, according to The InSneider. The 1958 movie is a science-fiction horror story which follows a wealthy heiress who grows into a giant after an alien encounter and goes on to take revenge on her cheating husband. It was reported last year that Burton would direct and produce the remake, with Gone Girl author Gillian Flynn writing the script. Andrew Mittman and Tommy Harper are also producing with Kai Dolbashian as executive producer. However, Variety reports that Flynn exited the project due to other commitments after writing a first draft of the screenplay. The production team is searching for a new writer. Robbie's involvement would depend on the final version of the script.
7NEWS
7 hours ago
- 7NEWS
Margot Robbie in talks to star in remake of Tim Burton film
Margot Robbie is in talks to star in Tim Burton's Attack Of The Fifty Foot Woman remake. The 35-year-old Australian actress is being considered for the lead role in the director's upcoming movie for Warner Bros, and she would also produce the film through her LuckyChap production company, according to The InSneider. The 1958 movie is a science-fiction horror story which follows a wealthy heiress who grows into a giant after an alien encounter and goes on to take revenge on her cheating husband. It was reported last year that Burton would direct and produce the remake, with Gone Girl author Gillian Flynn writing the script. Andrew Mittman and Tommy Harper are also producing with Kai Dolbashian as executive producer. However, Variety reports that Flynn exited the project due to other commitments after writing a first draft of the screenplay. The production team is searching for a new writer. Robbie's involvement would depend on the final version of the script.
