Experience with the use of a part-time social worker in a private pediatric practice for one year is presented. The medical team, including a caseworker, with the physician as the manager, is acceptable in private practice. With the aid of a caseworker a fuller service may be rendered to the patient. The patients who have the best relationship with the pediatrician are most likely to benefit from this program. Unlike many other aspects of pediatric practice, dealing seriously with emotional and social problems does not automatically produce dramatic results. Much work is required for rewarding success. With the aid of a well-trained, mature, social worker, the pediatrician does more counseling rather than less. Pediatric practice becomes more exciting and gratifying.