The sequelae of AIDS are presenting a worldwide challenge, both in numbers and in the presentation of symptoms, and more children are being affected. Seventy-five children ranging from one month to 4 years were assessed on the Gesell Developmental Schedules in a paediatric clinic for follow-up of children with HIV+ serology in Zimbabwe. When children are deficient in their developmental milestones, it is of concern to their parents. Therapists are involved in the stimulation, adaptation and remediation of the deficits and problems encountered. Combining the parents' concerns with the child's needs can be a challenge with children who, in the long run, will face death.Four patterns emerged which required different levels of intervention. The levels may be described in a graded sequence that increases with disability, beginning with no developmental delay, then increasing from mild to moderate to severe developmental delays. Handicapping conditions vary within this framework. Within the severe category, there are children who have a range of neurological deficits, including dystonia, hypotonia and tongue thrust. Intervention requires strategies that use a variety of techniques, dependent on the presentation of symptoms. The level of illness in the parents must also be taken into account because they too may need intervention. Intervention strategies are outlined according to the pattern of delay.