Most pedophiles who are attracted to girls, prefer girls ages eight to ten. Most pedophiles attracted to boys prefer boys over age ten. Pedophiles who are attracted to boys, even if they are heterosexual, are the most difficult to treat. Some sexual abusers are actually people with antisocial personality disorder, sexual sadism, or other conditions who will force themselves sexually on anyone weaker. While their abuse may involve children of any age or gender as well as adults, they are not true pedophiles.
Many pedophiles believe that they like children.
These clearly are only excuses. Most true pedophiles are not physically forceful with children. Many will look at the child naked, expose themselves, or masturbate without touching the child. A minority will force sexual acts on the child. No matter what the abuse, it is traumatic for a child.