Other western European countries, particularly Prussia after 1870, began to make legislation regulating the employment of children. In developing countries the employment of children in factories, mines, and agriculture has remained widespread. Most child labourers, some as young as 4 years, are employed in agriculture, domestic service, or small, unregulated urban enterprises such as weavers' and mechanics' workshops or restaurants. In such societies, the child's contribution to the family's income may be vital to its survival. Child labour prevails where competition is strong, technologies are rudimentary, and production processes simple and routine.
Children tend to be paid extremely low wages and some are bonded, working solely to pay off a debt.
Many work long hours, frequently with no protection from toxic substances or dangerous machinery, no allowance being made for their physical vulnerability or developmental needs. The Oxford English Reference Dictionary 5. All rights reserved.