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DM_Alex | Zoological Gardens

he/him

5.0

(5)

Timezone

Detroit

Language

English

Identity

Published Writer
Artist
Educator

About DM_Alex | Zoological Gardens

I’m a children's librarian, actor, musician, and lifelong Dungeon Master. But of all my ever-multiplying hobbies, I love running TTRPGs the most! One of the greatest joys of my career has been building an ongoing D&D program for kids and teens in grades K-9 at my local library, where over 60 children play and DM every month. I’ve seen firsthand how D&D acts as a powerful, constructive sandbox for young people. It naturally nurtures socioemotional development, sharpens creative and critical thinking, boosts problem-solving skills, and fosters deep empathy by bringing kids together from all backgrounds. Whether your young hero is brand-new to the hobby or ready to flex their storytelling muscles, I provide an encouraging, imaginative space where every player gets to shine.

My game style

"Yes, And" Improv & Problem-Solving 🌀 Unexpected player choices are the best part of the game! I follow your lead, turning wild ideas and creative detours into memorable, rewarding story moments. (No rigid railroading here!) Player-Focused & Kid-Friendly Experience 🎭 As a children's librarian and educator, I specialize in meeting players at their exact skill level. Whether your child is shy and quiet, or outgoing and theatrical, I make sure everyone feels heard and included. Story-Driven Adventure 📖 Your characters are the true main characters of this story. The best moments happen when plans go sideways, and we discover what your hero is really made of! Detail-Oriented & Supportive 🧠 I keep the game organized so players don't have to stress. I'll remember the little things... like your spunky pet chicken, the secret map you found three sessions ago, or reminding you to level up your spells! Balanced Tone: Laughs & Heroics ⚖️ I keep the table light, humorous, and welcoming, while making sure high-stakes moments feel genuinely exciting and important. Exploration & Discovery 🌍 Expect vibrant worlds full of hidden secrets, quirky NPCs, and cool locations waiting to be explored. Cinematic, Swashbuckling Combat 🗡️ Battles are high-energy and visual, not just a spreadsheet of math. Swing from chandeliers, disarm villains with a clever trick, and use your environment to save the day! Safe & Inclusive Table 🌈 My table is a welcoming, zero-tolerance space for bullying where all backgrounds, identities, and neurodivergent playstyles are celebrated and accommodated.

At a glance

1 year on StartPlaying

Safety checks

Vetted through our Young Heroes application process.

Passed an 8 point background check.

Provided 3 parental references.

Completed the Young Heroes DM for Kids Training.

Reviews from parents (5)

Reviews from parents and guardians

Experience

Children's Services Supervisor, Public Library

Jul 2016 to Present

•

Worked with ages 3 to 17

High School English Teacher

Jul 2014 to Jul 2016

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Worked with ages 13 to 17

DM_Alex | Zoological Gardens's specialities

Player ages

To learn more about how age bands map to our content guidelines, visit our FAQ.

9 to 10
11 to 12
13 to 14
15 to 17

Themes

Fantasy
Wacky
Dragons

Educational Topics

Creative Thinking
Creative Writing & Storytelling
Problem Solving
Teamwork & Collaboration

Game style

Roleplay Heavy

Roleplay Lite

Rule of Cool (RoC)

Sandbox / Open World

DM_Alex | Zoological Gardens's games