Is Your Child a Picky Eater?

Any parent can tell you that kids are picky eaters. A few exceptions do exist, of course. In fact, some kids are downright adventurous about eating, eagerly trying new and even "exotic" foods. Nevertheless, many kids are definitely picky about what they eat, particularly when it comes to healthy foods like vegetables.

Gifted kids are no different. They can be picky eaters too, but the word "picky" doesn't come close to describing some of the eating habits of a picky gifted kid. Even if you give some gifted kids a plate full of their favorite foods, they won't eat any of it if the foods are touching!

Although that kind of eating behavior can be extremely for parents, it can help if parents understand where that behavior comes from. Gifted kids tend to have what are called "supersensitivities." One of those sensitivities, the sensual supersensitivity, can increase a child's sensitivity to food flavors and textures. The flavors of foods are more intense for these kids. Some kids are so intensely aware of flavors they can identify all the ingredients, including herbs and spices, in any dish. Consequently, they may not like the mix of flavors when foods touch on a plate. It may also be why they don't want to try foods they have never tried before.

If you have a picky eater at home, you might want to read more about why kids are picky and what you can do about it -- but remember those supersensitivities!

• Why It's Normal for Children to Be Picky Eaters
• Converting a Picky Eater