Is there a new baby in the house? That's good news in many ways, especially at tax time when the chip off the old block will help you chip away at your tax bill.

A growing family makes you eligible for a variety of tax savings. You get an additional exemption, may be eligible for several credits, and can use tax-favored ways to save and pay for Junior's college. You might even be able to lower your taxes by shifting some of your higher-taxed income to your youngster, either as an asset gift or as salary if you own your own business.

Here are some common tax matters every new -- and experienced -- mom and dad need to consider.