Gus and the Stick

About This Decodable Reader

“Gus and the Stick” is a free printable decodable reader designed for kindergarten and 1st grade students practicing s-blends phonics patterns. This mini-book uses phonetically controlled vocabulary so beginning readers can successfully sound out nearly every word in the story, building confidence and reinforcing the specific phonics skills they're learning.

The 2-page PDF includes the reading passage on page one and a coloring page illustration on page two. Print both pages, staple together, and your child has an instant mini-book. The coloring activity reinforces story comprehension and makes reading practice feel like a fun activity rather than homework.

This reader is part of our collection of 50 free decodable readers organized by phonics skill and aligned with the Science of Reading. For additional practice with s-blends patterns, try our s-blends phonics worksheets which include word sorts, phrasing practice cards, and rapid naming charts.