LESSONS FROM THE KID FRONT ARE PLENTIFUL.

Byline: -- Carol Rock

Some adults hold on to the delusion that they are the only wise ones around to teach the children. I believe that kids teach us many more things than we ever thought we'd learn.

Anyone who's ever chatted with a toddler knows that their powers of observation are keen and their expressions come out unfiltered. And teens might seem to be aloof and distant, but they are eager and willing to be a part of our lives.

On our cover, Jake Anderson, a 2 1/2-year-old Woodland Hills boy, was honored at the recent Arthritis Walk. He served as an illustration that the disease can strike at any age, but his ebullient spirit also proves that with optimism and taking one step at a time, we can help those around us who are dealing with the illness. Want to be inspired? Their story is featured on page 4.

Likewise, Kathleen Melton's children reminded her that it's important to know the people around us -- from their immediate needs to their heritage that made them part of our diverse melting pot. It's a good lesson for all of us. Read her blog on page 8.

Kaila Jordan, a freshman (ah, youth!) at Louisville High School in Woodland Hills, saw a need in her school's sports department and put her writing skills to the test. Just last week, she was there for a $10,000 check presentation for the school's athletic program, the result of her essay. There's a snippet on page 1, but the whole story is online at the Woodland Hills hub of valleynews.com.

Kudos also go to the West Hills Hospital Auxiliary for reaching the million-dollar mark in scholarships given. Hopefully the recipients will go on and inspire others to continue learning and supporting such fine community institutions. The group's story is on page 4.