About us

Hi, I'm Maria – the heart behind AlmaVidaKids.

I’m a Portuguese mother living in the Netherlands since 2019, and AlmaVidaKids was born from both passion and necessity. After becoming a mom, I saw how overwhelming the world of children’s products can be—so many things marketed as “must-haves,” most of them loud, flashy, and disposable.

I wanted something different.

Something calmer.
Something more beautiful.
Something that respected the child, the home, and the environment.

That’s when I began learning about Montessori, Waldorf, and Pikler—philosophies that celebrate freedom of movement, creativity, and simplicity. They helped me rethink how we support childhood at home, and I knew I wanted to make those values accessible to more families.

I left my career and started AlmaVidaKids. It began slowly—just a few items I believed in, and a hope that other parents were looking for the same things I was.

What We Do

At AlmaVidaKids, I curate toys and furniture that:

• Are made in Europe with care and intention

• Support open-ended play, independence, and movement

• Are free from screens, bright plastic, and overcomplication

Most items are shipped directly from the studios that create them—so we avoid unnecessary stock, reduce waste, and keep things honest.

What We Believe

We believe children deserve real play.
We believe homes can be peaceful and playful.
We believe in fewer things, better chosen.
And we believe childhood should feel like childhood—not like training for adulthood.

If you're here, you're likely someone who feels the same.
Welcome—you’re in the right place.

— Maria