What Should a 4-Year-Old Know Academically
At the age of 4, children reach several key developmental milestones that lay the foundation for their academic and cognitive growth. Here are some of the academic and cognitive skills that a 4-year-old should know:
Language and Cognitive Milestones
- Speak clearly using more complex sentences.
- Count 10 or more objects.
- Correctly name at least four colors and three shapes.
- Recognize some letters and possibly write their name.
- Understand the concept of time and the order of daily activities.
- Use future tense.
- Have a greater attention span.
- Follow two- to three-part commands.
- Recognize familiar word signs, such as "STOP."
- Know their address and phone number if taught.
Math, Writing & Reading Skills
- Count to 20.
- Understand the concept of time.
- Tell a story in parts.
- Understand the words "same" and "different."
- Create a drawing of a person with 2-4 body parts.
- Begin to understand comparisons, like big and small, long and short.
- Learn their full name, age, and address.
Social and Emotional Development
- Likes to try new things.
- Role-plays as "Mum" and "Dad."
- Becomes more creative with pretend play.
- Becomes less aware of only oneself and more aware of people around them.
- May obey parents rules but does not always.
Movement Milestones
- Running, hopping, throwing and kicking balls, climbing, and swinging with ease.
- Stand on one foot for more than 9 seconds.
- Do a somersault and hop.
- Walk up and down stairs without help.
Recommended Activities
- Children learn through play, so engaging in interactive conversation, reading books, singing, playing word games, and talking to kids will increase their vocabulary while providing a fun learning experience.
In conclusion, while every child develops at their own unique pace, these milestones provide a general guideline for the academic and cognitive skills that a 4-year-old should know. Its important to remember that children develop in their own way and at their own pace, so its essential to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for their growth and learning.
