I agree with Breakaway: they probably know it's not working, or at least know something could be better. Beyond that, I don't think it's ever a bad policy to be upfront with kids, and especially gifted ones. Though they may sometimes lie, which is a completely different issue, children don't usually play games (in the relationship/communication sense of the phrase) or beat around the bush, and in my experience they appreciate it when adults are straightforward with them in return.