Where to find short Dutch texts

As soon as you’ve learned a couple of Dutch words, a student feels ready to start reading simple, short texts. So what are your options?

The first option should be your textbook. Many handbooks contain short texts just at your level. Often overlooked, but useful and with exercises. Also check if there is a workbook that comes along.

Wablieft is a website dedicated to simple Dutch. There is a section with newspapers, called kranten. Some of the articles are for free but you can also get a subscription with a newspaper in paper. Additionally, there’s a list of books according to their level.

Often recommended by teachers is Nedbox. It’s a regularly updated website with texts and videos from the Belgian news. Exercises are added, which can be adapted to your level.

Lingua.com published over 30 texts and listening exercises, plus some premium ones. The texts are on different levels.

Reading the media is only recommended to intermediate students. You may find newspapers at the local library, where you’ll also find books for young adults. These are typically easier to read.

Last but not least: I wrote a book with simple texts for A2 level, as well as one for A2-B1 level. The difficult words are marked in bold, so you’ll learn plenty of new words.