Slide-in ranges (also drop-ins), tend to have knobs in front, and the back doesn't stick up. Freestanding ranges stick up at the back with the knobs there. So it sounds like you don't want freestanding. [Some models may have a lock to keep their front knobs from working unless you want them to; depending on your kids, this may be good or bad.] 30" is a typical size.

You can easily find a range for less than a cooktop and oven, but you could also probably find the opposite, depending on the specific models you select. Generally a range takes up less space and fits better in a small kitchen.

If you want to cook two things on two large hobs at the front, you'll need to examine the hob layout before you buy any range; this varies across models.

I don't know about "powerboil"; it sounds like its good for if you want to boil stuff fast.

Would a separate electric cooktop give me more options?
I looked around but can't seem to find a configuration on top that would fit multiple big pots towards the front.

Frigidaire which is made by electrolux offers a reasonably priced ($2400 MSRP) professional electric range which is 40 inches if you can fit that in
FPEF4085KF is the model number. I am sure you can buy it for less.

Thanks, but that's too wide for me.
I guess I'm looking for advice on the layout of the cooktop. I saw a pic of a 36" Wolf electric cooktop that had a nicelayout with 4 big burners and a 5th off to the right and all flat controls. Don't care whether it's Wolf or whatever, but the layout seemed practical. I've read here that for electric cooktops it's just a matter of the layout and the buttons, but is there an easier way to just find the layout I'm looking for? Google is only getting me so far... Thanks.