What Does Dreaming of a Child Mean?
Traditional Interpretation
According to traditional interpretation (Ibn Sirin, Nabulsi), seeing a child in a dream may mostly point to goodness, provision, glad tidings, and new beginnings; seeing many children is interpreted as abundance and happiness, and a beloved child held in one's arms as tenderness and blessing. That said, some sources also associate a small child with the fleeting bustle of the world, discord, or the possibility of a slight sorrow.
Psychological View
In modern psychology (Jung), the child archetype can represent the purity, innocence, and untapped potential of one's inner world; it may point to a newly developing side of oneself or to the needs of the "inner child." From a Freudian perspective, it may reflect caregiving, creativity, or repressed feelings tied to one's own childhood experiences.
By Context
A Boy
It may point to good news, glad tidings, and provision.
A Girl
It can be interpreted as troubles passing, and as the relief and abundance that come after hardship.
Holding One's Own Child in One's Arms
It may point to tenderness, compassion, and the warmth of family growing stronger.
A Small / Nursing Child
It can be interpreted as joy and blessing, though some sources also allow for the possibility of a fleeting bustle or a slight sorrow.