Learning restoration through play: students engage with Forest Kids at FAO
17/10/2025
On 17 October 2025, nearly 1 000 students aged 9 to 14 took part in Junior World Food Day at FAO headquarters. Some of these students participated in an interactive Discovery Station showcasing the newly launched restoration module of the Forest Kids game. The activity was organized under Initiative 2 of the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration’s Capacity, Knowledge and Learning Action Plan (CKLAP), which aims to strengthen youth learning and engagement in ecosystem restoration.
Developed by FAO in collaboration with Avoin ry for technical aspects and supported by the European Space Agency, the game’s new restoration module was officially launched during the 11th World Conference on Ecological Restoration (SER2025) held in Denver, United States of America, in October. The module introduces players to the process of restoringbiome-specific forests, reintroducing native species and understanding the practical steps needed to heal degraded ecosystems. By simulating real-world restoration actions, the game aims to raise awareness about the importance of ecological recovery and biodiversity conservation.
Before its launch, the module was pilot tested with 100 students from a primary school in Rome, Italy. The children explored forest ecosystems, learned about degradation and restoration challenges, gaining a deeper understanding of how these complex systems function and why they are vital for life on Earth. They provided feedback on gameplay and content while discovering detailed information about specific tree species and animals that coexist within different biomes. Their insights helped refine the module and confirmed the value of play-based learning in strengthening environmental awareness.
The Discovery Station explored the links between forest health, biodiversity and food systems.
The session began with an overview of why healthy forests are essential for biodiversity, climate resilience and sustainable food production.
A medical doctor from Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, explained how healthy ecosystems support nutritious diets – from forest fruits to medicinal plants – and how protecting forests ultimately protects human health.
Finally, students were introduced to the restoration module of the Forest Kids game, illustrating how interactive learning can help young people understand ecosystem restoration.
Students actively engaged in the discussion, asking questions and reflecting on forest loss, climate change and the role young people can play in environmental stewardship.
At the Discovery Station, each group of students was immersed in gameplay restoring different biomes and discovering the species that depend on them. The activity allowed students to experience firsthand how landscapes degrade and how targeted restoration actions can rebuild ecological balance.
The Forest Kids game is freely available to all users in six languages (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish).
Play now and become a young restoration champion.
Caterina Marchetta and Chiara Patriarca, FAO