I'm not sure of the steps for getting into schools as we moved when our son was 1, but I did love living in the South Slope area of Brooklyn, which made my husband's commute to the financial district very convenient. Lot's of families had started moving in and shops/restaurants were just beginning to grow around us as we left. We lived on 20th street between 5th and 6th avenue in Brooklyn. It used to be called South Slope but someone just told me it is now called Greenwood Heights?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greenwood_ ... ,_Brooklyn
I lived by myself in Astoria and absolutely loved that part of Queens. Great views of the city, convenient shops, the best Greek food in the tri-county area, easy commute as well. I didn't see as many families around there as in Brooklyn, though. Mostly singles.
I'm not sure which part of Manhattan your husband will be working in, if you're not too far downtown, have you considered one of the commuter cities? We lived in Stamford, CT right before moving to London. A 45 minute train to Grand Central Station, MUCH more space for your money, easier with a car, and fantastic schools, great shopping centers, access to northeast trips are easier (Cape Cod, Vermont, etc), and most of all, better taxes! The other bonus is there is a fantastic mums network throughout Fairfield County.
For school reviews, here's a great site:
http://www.greatschools.org/connecticut ... st=charter
I did live in Manhattan for 4 years...but no clue on the current market. I remember always seeing families living in neighborhoods like Murray Hill, Upper East and West side, Tribeca/Chelsea, West Village, all depending on your budget I suppose
PM if you'd like any more info on Stamford/CT areas. Good luck!
