Circuits can be wired using two methods: series or parallel. The preferred method and the type of circuit you find in your home lighting system is parallel wiring. This is because each light in a parallel circuit is independent of each other, so if a light bulb blows, the rest continue to work. It's relatively straightforward to make your own parallel circuit to turn on lights. Do it as an experiment with your kids, using flashlight bulbs and a battery. It teaches the basic principles of electric circuits in an interactive way.