Hi E.,
I, too, just used workbooks at that age. There are many, many to choose from- used, new, etc...
I also set up my home like a preschool with "stations"- reading area, puzzle area, computer area (yes, it is not too early to start on that), arts-n-crafts, etc... We also had a schedule and that was nice for everyone, as well.
Here is a good guideline for what a 3 year old should be doing (working on):
http://www.nncc.org/Child.Dev/mile3.html
I also taught my son how to correctly hold a crayon and we would practice drawing straight lines and circles (just circle motions is good enough). We also did LOTS of homemade flash cards- letters, shapes, numbers, colors, etc...
As for homeschool vs. public school, I homeschool my son. I am a certified Texas teacher, k-12, with 20+ years of experience. Homeschooling is not for everyone, but I think it is a wonderful way to teach your children. Texas is one of the easiest states to homeschool in as you don't have to do anything to homeschool. You just do it.
Best wishes,
R. B.