4th grade is a year where we prepare the children for middle school both academically, but also emotionally.  September can be the hardest month for my children (and parents) when they are coming back to school after a long summer and we start with reviewing the times tables they learned in 3rd grade.  (HINT: memorizing the times tables over the summer makes September much easier).  After September, the children and I know a bit more about each other and we enjoy learning, doing projects and going on field trips together.  Many of my 5th grade parents will say their child was prepared for 5th grade after a year with me.