I have three kids. They are all still in the house, but my wife and I have put a lot of effort into understanding how we make "successful" children. After a lot of reading, reminiscing and thinking about it I have come to three conclusions about how to have successful kids.

1. Don't be poor. Statistically, those who are under or near the poverty line have exponentially worse outcomes than those who are even slightly above it. This will get them at least 50% of the way there.

2. Don't be abusive. Either physical, emotional or sexual abuse will destroy and poison a child. While it may seem obvious, some people don't realize that they are doing it because that is what they were brought up with. This gets them another 20% of the way.

3. Be part of the right social groups. Social mobility is huge for being in "the right place at the right time" or in other words "being lucky." This will get the kid into 80% territory.

The last 20% is a crap shoot that is largely dependent on a mix of external factors and individual actions past peak parenting age.

edit: By the way, notice how the families in the article hit all my points. No poor, abused or outcast people in that group.