The differences between climbing and walking the stairs in the currently acquired stages

With this thesis we wanted to research the differences between climbing and descending on a vertical ladder and stairs. Based on the results of the analysis we wanted to find out if there are any differences or similarities between the two movements in the same development period. \n \nModern researchers of the motion development of preschool children confirm the presence of the development phases at acquiring elementary motion patterns (climbing, walking, crawling, etc.). On the basis of the results, they search for the causes of graduality and in longitudinal studies they analyse the importance of the relevant motor stimulus for a harmonious motor development. \n \nThe progression theories within individual elementary motion patterns are still valid, but there are no comparisons between the elementary motion patterns within individual development phases, which could indicate the need for a more varied stimulating environment and for greater caution when using terminology. \n \nIn this diploma thesis we presented the differences between walking down the stairs (or climbing and descending the stairs) and climbing the vertical ladder (or climbing and descending the vertical ladder). We analysed the differences between the two movements and tried to prove that the different uses of terminology are necessary as those are different types of movement, which should be shown in the various stages acquired in both movements. \n \nThe sample included 60 children aged 24 to 36 months. We first observed the children when climbing up and down on the vertical ladder and subsequently when walking up and down the stairs. We recorded the results in the evaluation scale according to a predetermined criterion. \n \nWe concluded that children learn how to walk up and down the stairs (climb the stairs) before they learn how to climb (climb the vertical ladder), therefore we believe that in terms of terminology it is more appropriate to use the phrase walking the stairs than climbing the stairs, even if the children do not walk on them. The children who excelled in walking up and down the stairs were not necessarily at the same level in climbing, therefore we believe that there are two different types of climbing and both should be sufficiently encouraged for the proper development of pre-school children. \n