Here it is–The Tibetan Back Carry. This is an extremely useful position because it allows you to tow your kid around while actually getting things done. I personally find it very useful for the prevention of nervous breakdowns.  For instance when the dude is feeling cranky and uncooperative and I really have to get something done–like set up for the Farmers Market.  Onto the back he goes and we’re all happy again.

Now in order to carry your little one on your back, you’re going to have to get him back there. Here’s one way:

The Back Scoot

Beginning with baby on your hip, drape the onbuhimo across baby’s back. Lifting your arm, begin to carefully scoot baby onto your back. Follow diagrams for details. BE SURE to practice this maneuver with a helper until both you and baby are confident and comfortable.

It’s a pretty slick maneuver, but it does take some practice. If you are not up to it or if you have a very wiggly tot, you can also just sit your baby on the couch with the onbuhimo underneath the bum and go from there. Feel free to email me if you need further explanation of the specifics.

Once baby is on your back, you are ready to rig up the:

Tibetan Back Carry

Step One:
With baby on your back, drape the corresponding shoulder straps of the onbuhimo over each shoulder. At this point you are going to want to exercise extreme caution because your little one will just be hanging around back there. You don’t want to have to explain about the time that you dropped him on his head when he was a baby, now do you? Use a spotter whenever possible and/or stand next to something really soft (like the bed or couch).

Step Two:
Thread each shoulder strap into the ring on the same side of the onbuhimo, rucksack style. Baby should be straddling the onbuhimo with the rings and seat of the carrier going between the legs.

Step Three:
Gently bounce a bit to settle baby into the onbuhimo, making sure your little pal does not fall out. Now breathe. The toughest, scariest part is over.

Step Four:
In order to complete the next step, hold one of the straps securely between your legs. This is the strap on my left in the picture.

Step Five:
As pictured, take the tail of the right strap and thread it beneath the “rucksack” strap on the left.

Step Six:
Repeat on the opposite side. The tails of the straps should make an “X” across your chest.

Step Seven:
Simply take the two ends and tie into a square knot. Make sure baby is centered in the onbuhimo and firmly (but not tightly!) pressed up against your back.

Ok Rock Stars, you’re all set. This should feel VERY comfortable and stable. It might take a couple of practice runs before everything feels tight enough and like the baby is secure in there. Be patient–the results are well worth it!!

Please feel free to comment or contact me via email if you have any questions or would like further information. Now go put on that baby!

Related posts:

1. Tutorial: How to Wear an Onbuhimo (Part 1, Front Carry, Hip Carry)
2. From the Studio: Plans for the Next Two Weeks