The story can increase public awareness by bringing the hidden issue of child labor to light. People who were previously unaware might become more conscious of the problem.
I'm not sure specifically as I haven't read the exact 'ny times child labor story'. But generally, it might cover issues like the prevalence of child labor in certain industries, the working conditions those children face, and possible solutions to end child labor.
One true story could be of a child laborer in a sweatshop, stitching clothes day and night, deprived of a normal childhood.
In some sweatshops, there are child labor horror stories too. Children are made to sew clothes for hours on end. They are given very little food and water, and the working environment is overcrowded and filthy. They may be punished if they don't meet the high production quotas set by the bosses. It's a tragic situation as these children are robbed of their childhood and education opportunities.
In parts of Africa, there are modern day child labor stories where children are involved in mining. These kids are sometimes as young as 5 or 6. They dig in mines looking for precious minerals like diamonds or gold. They face great risks of cave - ins and they don't get proper education or healthcare because they are so busy working.
One main theme is exploitation. These books often show how children are taken advantage of by adults for economic gain, like in factories or mines.
One real child labor story is about a young boy in a developing country who was forced to work in a brick kiln. He had to get up before dawn and work long hours under the scorching sun. His small hands were often cut by the rough bricks, but he couldn't stop. He was paid very little and was constantly in a state of exhaustion.
The main consequence is the loss of education for these children. They are forced to work instead of going to school, which limits their future opportunities.
One story is of children working in the carpet - making industry in India. They are made to sit for long hours, often in unhygienic conditions, with little pay. Their small hands are used to tie the tiny knots in carpets which are then sold at high prices abroad, but they get only a pittance.
There was a boy who worked in a mica - mining area. Mica is used in cosmetics and electronics. He had to dig in dangerous mineshafts, and the working conditions were extremely hazardous. The boy was from a poor family and had no other option. Another instance is children working in the beedi (hand - rolled cigarette) making industry. They sit for hours rolling beedis, and the smoke and chemicals are bad for their health.
Poverty is a huge factor. Parents, who struggle to make ends meet, see their children as an additional source of income. The social structure also plays a part. Some lower - caste families have limited opportunities, and child labor seems like a way out. Moreover, the lack of strict enforcement of child labor laws in some regions allows this practice to continue.