Cycle Menus v The Kid Menus: A Comparison

There are free menus everywhere on the internet. Here's the difference between them and us.

Both The Kid Menus and cycle menus can help get you out of a rut, give ideas, are creditable (usually) in the food program, are component-based, include recipes, and are downloadable. Sound pretty similar? Check out the differences below.

Differences Between The Kid Menus and Cycle Menus

Format Differences

The Kid Menus can be accessed from an app. Cycle menus are usually printed and kept as hard copies.

Cost Differences

The Kid Menus is a tax-deductible monthly expense. Cycle menus are free.

Distribution Differences

The Kid Menus is received every week (includes current and upcoming week). Cycle menus are received all at once (for an entire year).

Meal Pattern Differences

The Kid Menus always stays up to date with the current meal pattern since it is sent weekly. Cycle menus can only follow the meal pattern as it was at the date of writing.

Grocery List Differences

The Kid Menus grocery list is relatively short and compatible with Walmart Pickup. It uses an item multiple time throughout the week to minimize waste and decrease time between exposures within the week. Cycle menus grocery lists are relatively long and require a vast variety of foods to be served each week.

Deduction Differences

The Kid Menus offers a 100% guarantee - if you follow the menus and get a deduction, you are paid for the deduction amount. Cycle menus offer no deduction.

Best Practices Differences

The Kid Menus always stays up to date with the current CACFP Best Practices since it is sent weekly. Cycle menus can only follow the CACFP Best Practices as they were at the date of writing.