Nikki Garcia, told “I enjoy arts and crafts and all things creative, but with three kids, pottery, painting or scrapbooking it is just not possible.”
Unlike many other mums, I barely have time for myself. Bento-making allows me to exercise my creative “me” time. [But] best of all, my kids benefit from my healthy food-art
creations.”
“With two picky eaters, I needed a way to assess how much food they were actually getting from their meals.”
"My toddler loves playing with her food but when I stick crackers or pre-packaged finger snacks in her lunch bag, it is not exactly the healthiest choice and I never know how much she is eating and how much ends up on the floor.”
“I came across beautiful bento boxes on social media that not only looked super cool, but the food descriptions seemed tasty and simple enough to put together.”
“For the first time, my kids ate their snacks without protest.”
Now she’s inspiring those around her with her creative snacks.
“My entire family has caught on to my bento fever.”
“We all share ideas for new designs and themes for tomorrow’s bento. The kids are excited to open their lunch, while I get excited when [I can] sneak in their veggies.”
While the word “bento” originated from Japan, the Filipino word “imbento” means “to invent”.
Garcia explains, “Every morning, I allow myself time to ‘invent’ and put together fun and healthy meals for my kids to enjoy.”
Using basic cookie cutters, a sharp knife and kitchen scissors, Garcia relies on Japanese kawaii characters and her kids’ current interests for inspirations.
