Assume that you work in an agency that serves economically challenged families. Some are recent immigrants to the United States, who have few resources, while others have experienced job loss or health care emergencies. Many of the families you serve expect their children to help support their families economically. In some cases, they want their children to drop out of school to help support the family.
Your agency wants all social workers and social services assistants to give consistent information and recommendations to families that want their children to work. In some instances, the state seeks your agency’s input on matters related to child welfare. Your supervisor has asked you to take part in your agency’s task force on the topic of child labor so that you can have input on the agency policy, and potentially make a recommendation to the state.
Directions
Use the assigned readings and website to develop your position on the benefits and harms associated with current child labor laws to share with your agency’s task force. Include:
1. What age and industry guidelines would you suggest to the task force?
2. What about the number of hours children should work?
3. What advice would you give a family who wants their teen to drop out of school to work?
4. What social services could you suggest for families who need economic support from their children?
