Know the Threat
Child Labor
Where exploitative child labor hides, the signs to watch for, and who to call when a child is being forced to work.
What It Is
Work That Steals a Childhood
Child labor is forced or exploitative work that deprives children of their childhood, safety, potential, and education. It ranges from dangerous shifts in factories and fields to forced begging and street work — and it is far from only an overseas problem.
When a child is forced or coerced into labor they can’t walk away from, it overlaps with trafficking.
The Scope
Where It Shows Up
Agriculture, food processing, construction, domestic work, and supply chains feeding everyday products.
Rising at Home
In the U.S., violations have climbed — including children working dangerous overnight and industrial jobs the law forbids.
Who Is Vulnerable
Migrant and undocumented children are especially at risk, pushed into work by debt, threats, or the need to survive.
The Trafficking Overlap
When force or coercion keeps a child from leaving, exploitative labor becomes trafficking — treat it that way.
Warning Signs
School-age children working long hours, overnight, or during school hours
Kids who appear exhausted, injured, malnourished, or fearful of an employer
A child whose wages, ID, or movement is controlled by someone else
Living and working in the same controlled place, unable to leave freely
Dropping out of school suddenly with vague explanations
An adult who answers for the child and won’t allow them to speak alone
What You Can Do
Tell Forced Labor From Hardship
A teen with an after-school job is not the concern. Force, coercion, danger, or a child who can’t leave is.
If It’s Forced, Treat It as Trafficking
When a child is forced or coerced into labor, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
Report Labor Violations
For child labor law violations, contact the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division. If a child is in danger, call 911.
Where to Report
Call or Text
National Human Trafficking Hotline
1-888-373-7888Text 233733 — for forced or coerced labor
Call NowImportant Disclaimer
This website is for informational purposes only. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.