History The American Academy of Pediatrics was founded in June 1930 by 35 pediatricians who met in Detroit in response to the need for an independent pediatric forum to address children's needs. When the Academy was established, the idea that children have special developmental and health needs was a new one. The Academy is committed to the attainment of optimal physical, mental, and social health for all infants, children, adolescents and young adults. To this end, the members of the Academy dedicate their efforts and resources. The Academy is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of nine members who are elected by members in their regional districts and thus also serve as district chairpersons.
Members vote each year for a national vice president, who also serves as president-elect.
Chapters have their own bylaws and further the aims of the national organization as well as local priorities. More than 30 committees develop many of the Academy's positions and programs. Committees have interests as varied as injury and poison prevention, disabled children, sports medicine, nutrition and child health financing. The Academy currently has 41 sections consisting of over 22,000 members with interest in specialized areas of pediatrics. This includes a section for resident physicians with over 8,000 members.