Preparing fun, nutritious meals for Landon brings me so much joy. It’s no surprise, because my Mama was always so creative when packing my lunches and she’s a phenomenal cook and baker. I remember heart shaped sandwiches and cucumbers not only peeled, but cut into shapes, and notes in every lunch she ever packed. It was just another little way to show how much she cared, a special touch that only my Mama could give.

Now, all these years later, I’m feeding my own toddler and I’m always looking for fun, creative ways to make mealtime a success. Fortunately, Landon is usually a pretty good little eater, but like any toddler, goes through spells of not eating much, refusing something I know he loves, etc. That’s normal and it’s okay!

On Instagram, I have a toddler meals highlight tab where I share some of his meals and snacks. I love getting inspiration from others who share what they’re feeding their little ones, so I hope that mine can be helpful to someone as well. It can be so easy just out of habit or convenience to serve the same thing the exact same way all the time, and I think that’s when pickiness creeps in. The more you change it up (for instance, if you serve apples frequently, try slicing or preparing them a bunch of different ways to teach the child that it’s okay to eat something that looks different), the better. I’m no expert, I can only share what I’ve learned from experience working with toddlers in college and now with my own little guy who loves to eat.

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Today, I’m showing just a few ways that you can use Bentgo Lunch Containers, but the possibilities truly are endless. Get as creative as you like or keep it super simple and basic. The Bentgo Kids Brights 5 Compartment Bento Style Lunch Box comes in a few cheery color combos and is so durable! The largest of the five compartments is the perfect size for a half sandwich, the three medium sized compartments are great for fruits, veggies, or other sides, and theres a small compartment ideal for dipping sauces or a special treat.

What I love most about it is that it’s completely leak proof. Landon’s applesauce or yogurt never sloshes over onto his sandwich and guess what… I only have to wash one container! That’s a win, my friends! The kid friendly latches are easy for Landon to open, too, which is really nice now that I’ve taught him to make sure the box is laying flat before he opens it (as you can imagine, this is pretty important haha).

I also have the Bentgo Glass Lunch Box. It has three compartments and a leak proof lid. There are a few (more subtle) color choices for the lid (since this box is intended for adults). It is just the right size and so durable. I love using it for leftovers (instead of several plastic containers) because I can reheat in the microwave in the glass (I try to never microwave in plastic). I’m sure I’ll use it a lot during football season when Grayson gets home super late and I save him a plate of dinner.

Lastly, I want to share a little about my favorite adult Bentgo product. The Bentgo Salad Box is a dream come true for salad lovers. Grayson and I have been trying to make a conscious effort to eat healthier and do a little meal prep at the beginning of each week, so this is such a help when it comes to convenience. It makes eating a big, hearty salad on the go easier than ever with it’s exceptional design. At the top, theres a small space with a built in fork that’s also a great place to hold a napkin. Then, the next layer is a tray with three compartments perfect for holding your protein (should you choose to do grilled chicken, taco meat, steak, etc), and salad toppings (cheese, croutons, dried cranberries, boiled eggs, veggies, etc.). In the center is a removable cup with a lid for your salad dressing. The bottom layer is a large salad bowl (big enough to hold up to four cups of greens!) that’s accessed by simply lifting the topping tray out. The box is so well made and functional, it makes me want to pack myself a salad in it every day!

One thing I’ve found that encourages me to eat salads is to always make a little extra meat with dinner so that I can use the leftovers for my salad for lunch the next day. That way, I’m not eating the exact same thing all over again, and I’m using it in an even healthier way. Also, keeping my favorite salad toppings on hand is key for me – cucumbers, dried cranberries, and tortilla strips – yum! 

I already cherish my days at the park with my babies, and I know I will look back with even more appreciation for these sweet, simple days as they grow. Packing a picnic lunch, walking to the park, and enjoying the sunshine is one of our favorite things to do, and our Bentgo Lunch Containers have made that easier than ever!

Thanks so much to Bentgo for providing the products featured in this post. As always, all opinions are my own.