Traditionally, pediatricians have received relatively little training directed at working effectively with the families of the children they care for. On the other hand, pediatricians gain extensive first-hand experience with families. The family systems perspective and family therapy models present potentially valuable approaches that can provide much of what is missing for pediatricians who are intent on enhancing their effectiveness with families. However, training in this model requires pediatricians to tailor new theoretical understandings; knowledge; and skills to the content, contexts, and goals of pediatric practice. Issues, challenges, and options for such training are discussed.