The four sections of this paper outline changes in UNICEF programs from their inception in 1946 to recent initiatives circa 1983. The first section delineates shifts in program emphasis, showing how the organization's focus has moved from meeting the emergency needs of post-World War II European children toward addressing the long-term needs of children in developing countries. The second section points out further changes in program emphasis occurring generally during the period from 1961 to 1975. During that time, UNICEF attempted to to meet children's intellectual, social, and emotional needs. Simultaneously, the organization expanded its advocacy role and increased technical assistance. An attempt was made to meet essential human needs by developing a set of interrelated services, an approach known as the "Basic Services Strategy." Alternative approaches to meeting basic health needs in developing countries were also explored. Recent initiatives described in the document have been made in the following areas: (1) the subnational level, (2) urban basic services, (3) early child development, (4) women's programs, (5) basic education, (6) water and environmental sanitation, (7) nutrition, (8) essential drugs, and (9) household fuels. The fourth section delineates projects focusing on child health, including the provision of growth charts and descriptions of methods for oral rehydration therapy, universal child immunization, and the promotion of breastfeeding and appropriate weaning practices. (RH)