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Development of an effective partnership with parents promotes the parental cooperation and open flow of information critical to the medical care of children. Dealing with 'difficult parents' can be frustrating to physicians and can adversely affect treatment of the child. Key steps to developing an effective partnership with parents include addressing parents' underlying fears about the child's illness and assuring them of commitment to care. Listening to parental questions and providing them with as much privacy and physical comfort as possible can further strengthen the partnership. Next, it is important to establish the goals of treatment and a plan of action. Occasionally, it may be necessary to remind parents of what kind of work environment is important for proper care of the child. In the event that a partnership fails despite these efforts, physicians can end the relationship on a positive note by making an appropriate referral.