... I know more and more families choosing this option, ... and I want to respect and encourage as best I can (without saying the wrong thing of course). ... I'm also very curious about their reasons and their progress, because I love all things educational.
Frankly, what you just wrote there sounds great to me, Dottie! Especially if you do want to hear more about it, then saying this sounds really supportive and opens the door to a good conversation.
Honest interest, expressed honestly, is never a bad thing, IMHO. You're very unlikely to say something offensive if you know a little something about the choice (as you certainly do!) and you ask kindly.
HTH!
