Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is preparing to welcome its youngest visitors into a new hands-on learning experience. Starting this fall, the zoo will launch “Cub Club,” a program designed specifically for preschoolers and their families. The initiative blends playful activities with educational elements, aiming to spark curiosity about animals and nature at an early age. Organizers say the program is structured to be both inclusive and sensory-friendly, making it accessible to a wide range of young learners.

The first session is set for September 23, 2025, beginning at 9:30 a.m. inside the zoo’s classroom located next to the gift shop. Following that, Cub Club will continue on the fourth Tuesday of each month, with dates scheduled through April 2025. Each gathering will include a mix of story time, arts and crafts, and a meet-and-greet with one of the zoo’s animal ambassadors. Families who attend regularly will notice that the program maintains a consistent format while offering different stories and animal introductions each month.

Upcoming dates include October 28, November 25, and December 23 of 2025. The sessions will pick back up in the new year on January 27, February 24, March 24, and April 28. All meetings begin at 9:30 a.m. in the same classroom space. Organizers emphasize that every child must be accompanied by an adult during the activities, which last about an hour.

Zoo officials noted that participation in Cub Club is included in the price of general admission. Families who hold zoo memberships may attend at no additional cost. Membership details and admission pricing are available on the zoo’s official website. The approach makes the program accessible to both local residents and out-of-town visitors who want to introduce children to wildlife education in a fun and interactive setting.

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo cares for more than 280 wild and endangered animals. Alongside its exhibits, the organization has long emphasized the importance of conservation and education. Leaders at the zoo say Cub Club is another step toward connecting the Gulf Coast community to the natural world. By engaging preschool-aged children, they hope to nurture curiosity and respect for wildlife that can last a lifetime.