Decodables, Advocacy, and Supporting Teachers with Elise Lovejoy

Episode SummaryIn this episode, Katie sits down with literacy advocate and author Elise Lovejoy, creator of Express Readers and founder of The Teacher’s Table. Elise shares her journey into the science of reading, explains the critical difference between leveled readers and decodable books, and offers practical guidance for parents supporting early readers at home. She also discusses the importance of research-aligned instruction in schools and how The Teacher’s Table is helping teachers access credible, evidence-based resources.In This Episode, We Discuss:How Elise began writing decodable books to make early reading both effective and joyfulThe difference between leveled readers and decodable texts — and why it mattersWhy guessing words from pictures can undermine long-term reading developmentWhat makes a strong decodable bookA simple, low-stress routine parents can use when decodables come homeThe importance of repeated practice and building automaticityHow parents can advocate for science-aligned reading instructionSigns that a school is moving toward (or away from) evidence-based literacy practicesWhy ongoing teacher professional learning is essentialThe mission behind The Teacher’s Table and how it supports teachers with research-backed resourcesKey Takeaways for ParentsDecodable books align directly with the phonics skills children have been taught.It’s okay to help with tricky words — reading practice should feel supportive, not stressful.Re-reading builds fluency and confidence.Asking thoughtful questions is one of the most powerful advocacy tools parents have.Supporting teachers ultimately supports all children.Resources MentionedExpress Readers – Decodable book series👉 expressreaders.orgThe Teacher’s Table – Research-aligned literacy membership for educators👉 theteacherstable.orgTo set up a gift subscription to The Teacher’s Table, email [email protected]!