Lilly Appenzeller
Summary
Dedicated caregiver with experience at Peoria Zoo, skilled in emotional regulation and adaptive equipment use. Successfully enhanced children's learning through personalized support and effective communication strategies. Proven ability to foster strong relationships with families and clients, ensuring safety and well-being while promoting developmental growth and positive behavioral outcomes.
Experienced with creating safe, engaging environments for children with special needs. Utilizes effective communication and behavioral management techniques to foster positive interactions. Knowledge of individualized care plans and therapeutic activities, ensuring comprehensive support.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Needs Babysitter
Peoria, IL
04.2024 - 09.2025
- Provided attentive care and supervision to children, ensuring safety and well-being.
- Assisted with daily routines, including meal preparation and educational activities.
- Engaged children in age-appropriate play to promote physical and cognitive development.
- Maintained a clean and organized environment conducive to learning and play.
- Developed strong relationships with parents, maintaining open communication about each child''s progress and needs.
- Adapted caregiving approaches based on individual needs of each child to provide personalized support.
- Adapted caregiving techniques to meet the unique needs of each child effectively.
- Oversaw household duties such as light housekeeping tasks or running errands when required.
- Organized and cleaned home after activities by picking up toys and straightening up play room.
- Successfully managed behavioral issues using positive reinforcement techniques.
- Utilized adaptive equipment effectively, enabling increased independence for children with mobility limitations.
- Reassured children when upset providing emotional support and stability.
- Bathed, dressed, and helped with teeth brushing as part of bedtime preparation.
- Assisted with meal preparation, light housekeeping and laundry to support family with additional chores.
- Monitored daily progress and adjusted strategies to enhance learning and behavioral outcomes.
Dog Sitter
Peoria, IL
01.2015 - 09.2025
- Supervised daily care routines for multiple dogs, ensuring safety and well-being.
- Developed individualized exercise plans to meet specific needs of each dog.
- Coordinated feeding schedules and managed dietary requirements for various breeds.
- Maintained accurate records of dog behavior and health observations during sittings.
- Communicated effectively with pet owners, providing updates on their pets' activities and needs.
- Followed pet care instructions, dietary needs, and medication regimens.
- Maintained a clean and organized work space for all pet sitting tasks, including cleaning up after dogs during visits or overnight stays.
- Offered additional support services like house-sitting and plant care when requested by clients, adding value to their overall experience.
- Provided exercise opportunities for the dogs, taking them on daily walks or trips to local parks as requested by the client.
- Developed strong relationships with clients, earning referrals and positive testimonials from satisfied pet owners.
Zoo Teen Volunteer
Peoria Zoo
Peoria, IL
04.2018 - 09.2019
- Engaged visitors through educational presentations about animal care and conservation efforts.
- Assisted staff in daily animal feeding and habitat maintenance activities.
- Supported special events by coordinating activities and engaging participants.
- Developed knowledge of animal behaviors to enhance visitor interactions.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure cleanliness and safety in animal exhibits.
- Enriched visitor experiences through informative talks on specific animals, their habitats, and conservation status.
- Supported educational programs by preparing materials and assisting instructors, resulting in more engaged participants.
- Strengthened relationships between the zoo and local schools through active participation in outreach initiatives.
- Organized special events and field trips, coordinating logistics and schedules.
- Presented talks to public and school groups to encourage interest in STEM topics.
Education
High School Diploma -
Illinois Valley Central High School
Chillicothe, IL05-2024
Skills
- Emotional regulation
- Toileting support
- Picture exchange communication system
- Personal hygiene assistance
- Autism experience
- Speech therapy support
- Adaptive equipment use
Timeline
Special Needs Babysitter
04.2024 - 09.2025
Zoo Teen Volunteer
Peoria Zoo
04.2018 - 09.2019
Dog Sitter
01.2015 - 09.2025
High School Diploma -
Illinois Valley Central High School