# 123. Decodable Books vs Leveled Texts in Kindergarten

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/kindergarten-cafe-podcast-simple-tips-for-teaching-kindergarten-6572540/123-decodable-books-vs-leveled-texts-in-kindergarten
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/kindergarten-cafe-podcast-simple-tips-for-teaching-kindergarten-6572540/123-decodable-books-vs-leveled-texts-in-kindergarten.md
Podcast: [Kindergarten Cafe Podcast: Simple Tips for Teaching Kindergarten](https://stenobird.com/podcast/kindergarten-cafe-podcast-simple-tips-for-teaching-kindergarten-6572540)
Published: 2026-02-26T08:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://kindergarten-cafe.captivate.fm
Audio file: https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/3c8ed1b7-bfe1-4dfc-868c-b63423fc16f0.mp3
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Duration seconds: 904

## Resource

Feeling torn between leveled readers and decodables? There are strong opinions out there, but in this episode, I share the difference between the two and what I use in my classroom (and why). I also share my favorite decodable resources and how I use them during small groups and independent reading time. In this episode I share: The difference between decodable vs. leveled books Why I stopped using leveled texts in small groups How decodables build student confidence and support phonics instruction When it’s okay to mix in leveled texts How to match decodable texts to students' phonics skills Tips for organizing your classroom library and book bags Why it’s okay if you’ve done things differently in the past (you’re learning!) Send Zeba a voice message Related Episodes: Science of Reading 101 With Heidi from Droppin’ Knowledge ~ Ep. 81 Resources: Decodable Readers Connect with Zeba: Instagram - @kindergartencafe Facebook - @kindergartencafe Website - www.kindergartencafe.org Tik Tok - @kindergartencafe Mentioned in this episode: Kindergarten Essentials Grab the year-long, mega-bundle kindergarten activities here: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindergarten-Teacher-Essentials-Year-Long-Mega-Bundle-Kindergarten-Activities-8356704

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