How can you make sure you're raising a good friend? Research shows that parents who are nurturing (but not permissive) produce children with strong social skills. When you reach out to your child, it's being loving. When she reaches out to another child, it's being friendly. If you can answer yes to the following questions, you're giving your child the right stuff:

• Do you consider the child's feelings, desires and needs?

• Are you interested in her daily activities?

• Do you respect your child's point of view?

• Do you express pride in her accomplishments?

• Do you offer support and encouragement during times of stress in her life?