Free Reading Resources for Struggling K-2 Readers
When your child is behind in reading, it can be hard to know where to begin. Many parents tell me, “I want to help, but I do not want to buy expensive programs or spend money on things that do not work.”
The good news is that you can support your child at home without spending anything. There are high-quality, evidence-based websites that offer free games, worksheets, videos, and decodable books that actually help kids learn to read.
Below are my three favorite free resources for struggling readers and exactly how to access them.
What Is a Helpful Free Reading Resource for Struggling Readers?
A helpful free resource is one that:
- teaches skills in a clear, structured way
- uses phonics-based, evidence-aligned methods
- is fun enough that kids will want to use it
- does not require a subscription to get started
All three resources below meet these criteria.
1. Nessy: What Free Tools Does Nessy Offer?
Nessy provides many free reading tools designed for children with reading difficulties. These resources help with phonics, sight words, and early decoding skills.
How to access Nessy's free tools:
- Visit Nessy.com.
- Make sure the language is set to American English.
- Click About Dyslexia.
- Scroll to the bottom and select Free Learning Resources.
What you will find:
- printable flashcards
- phonics worksheets
- simple reading games
- a link to the Nessy YouTube channel with engaging phonics videos
You can also explore the Free Homeschool Resources section. Inside are:
- Dyslexia Explained and What I Need workbooks
- printable phonics cards
- beginner-friendly math resources
These tools are great for short practice at home and do not require a login.
2. Flyleaf: Where Can I Find Free Decodable Books Online?
Flyleaf Publishing offers free decodable ebooks that help children practice the exact skills they are learning.
Why decodable books help:
Decodable books only use the sounds your child has already learned. This reduces guessing and helps build accuracy and confidence.
How to access Flyleaf's free ebooks:
- Go to flyleafpublishing.com.
- Click on Digital Library to view the free decodable ebooks from kindergarten through grade 3.
- Create a free account to unlock additional tools.
What is included:
- a placement assessment
- a clear scope and sequence
- guidance on where to start and what to read next
These materials make it easier for parents to choose books that truly match their child's reading level.
3. Teach Your Monster to Read: What Makes It a Helpful Free Reading Website?
Teach Your Monster To Read (teachyourmonster.org) is a nonprofit website that uses gamified reading instruction for K to 2 learners.
What skills it teaches:
- letter sounds
- early phonics
- sight word practice
- decoding and encoding
- basic comprehension
Why kids love it:
- they get to design a monster character
- the levels feel like a video game
- each activity is short and engaging
How to adjust difficulty:
- Sign in to your account.
- Go to Account, then Player Management.
- Click the three dots next to your child’s profile and select Change Game Stage.
This allows you to place your child right where they need to be.
What I Want You to Remember
Helping your struggling reader does not require expensive programs or long lessons. With a few minutes a day and the right tools, your child can build confidence and make steady progress at home.
These three websites give you everything you need to get started for free.
Ready to Get Started?
Your child can make progress with even a few minutes a day.
If you want a simple, structured plan to follow, click here for my 5-Day Kickstart to Reading Success.
It includes activities and games you can use at home to build confidence and make reading enjoyable.
