The message is the core of the communication process. It is sent by an individual or an organization to increase knowledge or awareness and lead to change. To bring about action for the elimination of child labour, messages have to be put out in various forms, by different sources, to numerous recipients and through a variety of channels. There are a range of messages: separating myth from reality, giving accurate information, showing the effects of child labour, throwing light on the nation's obligations under national and international legal instruments, and showing the inadequacies of the law enforcement, education, health and social welfare systems. Messages can also be aimed at providing guidance on what alternatives are available and creating alliances among and between senders and receivers.

The messages can be simple, direct and forceful, such as "stop child labour", and can use simple channels, such as posters. They can also involve entire campaigns that use multiple channels, such as the campaign in Brazil against child sexual exploitation, discussed below.