Book excerpt: If children were born with an instruction manual, parents would sigh in relief. Raising children is an awesome task, especially in New York City with its virtually limitless goods, services & activities. This guide to the special pleasures & challenges of raising children in Manhattan covers the city as a community resource & provides the information that every parent needs. The book educates parents by guiding them through the school application process, choosing doctors & caregivers, handling birthday parties, networking with other parents, dealing with emergencies, scheduling activities & play date etiquette. Also included are detailed listings of over 275 retail establishments specializing in children's goods & over 450 activities for children (classes, cultural activities & "boredom busters"). Business & services are not rated or reviewed, but are presented in an objective, easy to use, format.