Whether for a job transfer or a better school district, moving your family can be both exciting and scary—and especially emotional for kids. Stefanie Weiss, a parenting coach in New York City, offers ways to ease moving-to-a-new-nabe nerves.

Visit the library.
If your kids are silent but seem sullen about moving to a new home (and finding new friends), get some books on the subject to help jump-start the conversation. Relating to the characters in the book can help them express their feelings and learn coping strategies.

Utilize social media.
If you’re moving to the next town, or even across the country, it doesn’t mean your kids must lose meaningful connections with their pals. Remind them they can use social media—email, photo share and Skype—to safely and sweetly maintain friendships with buddies from the old block.

Involve the kids.
Help them get excited about moving by participating in the process. Hit the home improvement store and let them pick out paint colors for their new room. Have them select a new wall poster or picture frame. And take them on a virtual tour of the new ’hood by e-viewing local attractions.