As parents we all wonder at times if our children are up to the same development levels as other children their age. That is a normal question among good parents.

Of course we tend to brag a little when our child is better at this or that. We immediately pick up on something our child excels at from amongst other children.

It is all part of being a good parent.Shy children are not anti social. It does not mean they are not smart or behind the other kids in the learning curve.
They are just not as verbal about what they do know.

One of the coolest web sites to visit and read up on child development is:http://www.indianchild.com/child_development.htm
I ran a crossed it when searching for material on
what skills a 4 year old child should be practicing daily. You know how friends who are young moms can get. Every little set back they worry if it is normal. My answer is always...well lets find out.
I jump on the computer or encourage her to go to the public library or consult her pediatrician.

You can't go wrong by seeking good knowledge. So what is normal for 4 year olds? Parent resources
say that: "Stages of development in children :

4 years

Physical development
Can climb a ladder; walks up and down stairs with ease.

General child behavior
Fully toilet trained; can almost dress and undress self; eats with fork and spoon; washes and dries hands.

Language
Engages in coherent conversation; gives name, age and address; understands time."

This basic information let my friend know she needed to work on her son learning his name and address.

My daughter was not taught her name and address until the first quarter of first grade. It does not alarm me that kids tend to learn at different levels. Some children have a preferred pace and they do much better when given a little more time.
While other children rush right by and off into another subject much quicker than what we would consider normal.

That is why it is so important to have good teachers for your children. If a child is more advanced than another child. You do not want that child becoming bored with learning because he or she is made to go the same pace as other children.

You also do not want a child who is a bit slower in his learning efforts to feel over whelmed. So good teachers in our schools is a must.

If you are at all concerned with something your child does or does not do. Then grab a good book on Child Development. Brows the web. Ask your doctor for their opinion. Just do not worry with out good cause.

Kids are all different and they all learn at different levels and speeds. Normal is being able to identify your child's desires to learn and giving them the tools to work at his or her own pace.

Looking back at my own childhood. I don't know how I ever learned anything. My mom always kept me dressed up and looking pretty. I didn't have time to get out in the sand and play......Maybe that is why I love gardening so much today. (giggle) Who really knows?