I have homeschooled my daughter since she was 3. We just finished 5K <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"> . We have mostly computer based programs for the core subjects in the preschool/kindergarten grades (math and reading), and then I fill in the rest according to what I think will interest her or what I think she needs to learn at a certain age (science, social studies- such as safety issues, etc.), art, crafts, games, etc.. We homeschool year 'round, and do a regular schedule during the usual school year, and a couple of days a week during the summer.
Using the computer based programs lets someone else take over the core subjects should I get too sick to handle it.All I have to do is give them the log in and tell how to get to the lesson. Also, planning out your semester or year helps a lot. That way, you have your lesson plans set up for someone else to take over the basics while you are recooperating. So far, thankfully, we haven't missed much school due to my being sick. If you can find one, I also recommend something like a homeschool co op or out of the home classes for particular subjects (especially as your child is older), so they have some exposure to a classroom type experience (learning to take turns, raising hands, etc.) in case you do end up having to put your child in "regular" school at some point.
Learning to be flexible in your schedule is important too. Keeping up the school time during the summer grants us a good bit of flexibility, without sacrificing learning, especially if either one of us is sick.
I'd advise you to first check out the homeschool support groups in your area, and go to a few meetings. Ask a lot of questions. If you find a group you like and decide to homeschool, they will be a BIG support to you and help you learn the regulations in your state regarding homeschool <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"> . Also ask around and visit cover schools. They often have support groups, and will be a big help in your decision too.
Keep in mind, too, if you homeschool, it does not take nearly as long to teach one child as it does 15 <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif" border="0"> . Plus, you will not be taking breaks for the potty, lunch, snack, nap, waiting on other children to finish (or being rushed if you need to spend more time on something). Kindergarten took about 2 hours a day, 4 days a week for us. Preschool was about 1- 1/2 hours 3 days a week. Lots of what comes in between is "unschooling"- all the "Mommy, why..."'s <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif" border="0"> . Just natural lessons from everyday life.
Researching the curriculum, getting the curriculum and suppiles together, setting a schedule- those are the things that will take the most time. I usually do mine while nebbing and vesting. I also do my nebs and vest during the computer programs during school. That way I am there when she needs me, but she is also working independently (at 6, she likes this <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif" border="0"> ).
If you are interested, I have several good websites for preschool/kindergarten, including free and pay for lessons, lapbooks, minibooks, games, etc. I used the free ones mostly for preschool, and used preschool as a test time to see if I could handle homeschooling.I also found a good support group during that time. So far, so good! Just holler at me if I can help you with your decision <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"> . Homeschooling isn't for everyone, but if you decide it is for you, I really think you will enjoy it (most days, lol).