I always ask the parents to come with the child and with both parents present! I had one family show up without their child ( a 2 year old) and when I asked, they said it was because they were worried he might cry the whole time and they wouldn't be able to talk...ummm...NEXT! After that I always specify that they need to bring the child. I want to see how they interact with the baby/child and meet both parents to make sure both are a good fit. If I see the mom not allowing the baby to crawl more than a foot away from her, that shows me that she is going to be difficult because she will not let go of the child easily...the child will have a hard time adjusting, etc. I think it's vital to meet the child!