Another sweltering summer day, and the Daily News reports an extra measure of risk in NYC playgrounds-- no news at all to any parent whose toddler's hot-footed it from the sprinklers to the park bench. For those who can find a spot in the shade, summer reading, vetted by the DOE.

The merits of letting young children mature or holding them back, depending on your point of view, gets the Harvard once-over: Despite prevailing trends and the increasingly common practice among independent schools, it may not be the best choice, in the long view. But there's plenty of good news here, with inspiring videos on real-world projects and ideas, thanks to filmmaker George Lucas. No accident his swashbuckling hero doubles as a bashful academic.

Our wish-list is still in DOE limbo -- or maybe the summer doldrums is more like it. Stay tuned, and stay cool (city poolsand cooling centersare open).