Foster inclusion by teaching children they belong—start with mental hygiene - Delphia Howze

About the guest: Delphia L. Howze is an award-winning HR and Diversity and Inclusion leader, CEO of D. Howze Solutions, and Chief Inclusion Officer for a national organization. She has spent over 20 years helping organizations create inclusive environments where everyone can thrive. Delphia is also the author of Including You: Leading Inclusion From Where You Are. Episode Description In this episode, we cover three key areas to help parents and educators foster inclusive environments for children with special needs: The power of belonging: Delphia Howze shares her personal journey of overcoming societal stereotypes and explains why creating a sense of belonging is crucial for children’s emotional and social development. Unconscious bias in education and workplaces: Delphia, an expert in Diversity and Inclusion, discusses common biases (like the halo and horn effect) and offers practical advice on how parents can advocate for their neurodivergent children. Mental hygiene for caregivers and children: Delphia introduces the concept of “mental hygiene” and how it supports emotional well-being for both parents and children. Claudie explains how neurodivergent brains benefit from comfort zones and how sensory enrichment activities can help children find their passions and thrive. Episode Highlights [0:00] Delphia shares how a high school sociology class ignited her drive to challenge stereotypes and advocate for belonging: "That’s not my story; I won’t be a statistic." [10:20] Why parents must nurture their child’s uniqueness: "A flower will not blossom if you pluck it and don’t provide it the right environment." [14:20] Delphia explains the halo and horn effect: "One impression colors everything—positively or negatively—and that limits real understanding." [17:30] On creating inclusive environments: "Inclusion will sustain and maintain diversity. Without it, diversity fails." [20:00] Delphia introduces "mental hygiene": "It’s like brushing your teeth for your brain—essential for managing emotional and mental well-being." [38:00] Claudie explains why comfort zones are critical for neurodivergent children to explore their passions: "They find comfort in being wired as they are; that’s where passions grow." [44:50] Advice to parents on advocating for inclusive workplaces: "Look for organizations walking the talk—not just talking about diversity but showing it in their leadership and culture." [55:20] Delphia shares a powerful story of a CEO who transformed his unconscious bias after realizing it might limit opportunities for his own daughters.