1. Yes
2. No
3. Yes (it can be throw it on the ground).

1) January is as good a time as July, as long as you have the materials.
2) Sunlight is not needed to compost. The only thing sunlight might do is cause the moisture in your compost pile to evaporate.
3) a "bin" is really unnecessary. The only reason you really would use a bin is for containment and neatness.

Bloomin- look at the vermicompost forum for answers to worm questions. Red wigglers are easier to raise, but nightcrawlers are often better sellers. You should also ask about what impact introducing worms might have in your area (they can cause problems... this is an arguement for raising whatever you find in your area already).

Thanks everybody! I am ready to start now!

Make sure you get the type of worm that will work in a composting environment. Many "wild" worms are types that burrow deep into the soil and would not do well in a compost bin. As far as the nightcrawlers in a bait shop go, I'm not sure which type those are. Eisenia fetida and European Nightcrawlers are the best composting worms. If you plan to also use them for fishing, I'd go with the European Nightcrawlers. Here's a link that will tell you all about it:

Here is a link that might be useful: Trinity Worm Ranch

1) Any time of the year is OK, but winter would be the hardest due to cold temps for many climates.

2) Sunlight is not important since the heat is generated by the composting process. In very cold climates, some folks might want it in the sun if they had a choice.

3) Most composters prefer a bin of some sort, rather than just a pile. I use 1/4" mesh hardware cloth; 18" to 24" high and a diameter of 4 or 5 feet. Takes fives minutes to put up. Use chicken wire or whatever you have if you want to compost on the cheap. A $15 compost therometer is recommended.

How nice to be embarking on this adventure, and with the company and help of a Grandson. Perhaps where your Dad had the garden will be a good spot for a garden now.

I was going to say that any time you have any materials to put into it. I prefer a big pile contained on the back and two sides only. Some of those big earth worms that burrow go deep when the pile is hot and come backup when it cools off. I have seen a number of their holes or burrows when I have scooped my compost up and got down into the dirt beneath a time or two. Got some pictures somewhere. ":^)

In hot climates, I like some shade in my composting area, it helps conserve a little bit of moisture and is definitely cooler to work in. Northern climes may prefer the sun.
Good luck with your endeavors and keep us posted on hew it goes.
Bill P.