A paediatric doctor deals with the growth, development and the health of children, from birth to adolescence. It is a doctor who specialises in children’s illnesses.The main difference between paediatrics and adult medicine is that children are minors and, in most cases, are unable to make decisions for themselves. This raises issues to do with privacy, guardianship, legal responsibility and informed consent - all of which should be considered in every paediatric procedure. In a sense it is the parents who are also treated, as well as the child.

On the NHS' website a career in paediatrics is described as the following:

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Most doctors need to be able to deal with emotional issues; this is especially true in paediatrics as it can be tough dealing with extremely sick children. Children are easily frightened, especially when unwell, so it is important to be non-threatening, happy and appreciate when examining children. You need to be friendly in order to 'get along' with children.
PAEDIATRICIAN – Step into the NHS – NHS careers [online] Accessed 20.10.09