Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on May 2013

Like many new mothers before her, patisserie chef Anna-Marie Farrier had to return to work in some capacity after the birth of her daughter—but the hours of a chef were detrimental. So, along with her artist friend Emiko Boylan, she decided to create a relaxed space where Tokyo parents and their progeny could mingle. Hence the birth of Busy Little Bee Tokyo (various locations), a bilingual playgroup and cooking/craft school. Suitable for toddlers aged 18 months through three years, cooking classes include the Mommy and Me Storybook Treats (90 minutes; ¥3,000), where a book is read and participants create their own refreshments based on one of the characters. The Baking for Mommies dessert-making class, meanwhile, allows moms to bake adult-only treats in relative peace.