The popcorn ceiling in my family room is flaking off.

http://homeguides.sfgate.com/spot-repair-popcorn-ceiling-43453.html

I'm not sure why it's happening but you can buy a spray can of "popcorn" type of paint to touch up areas on walls. I've seen it at both Lowes and Home Depot.

Not sure how you can fix it but I would have it tested for toxic materials.

I remember reading a post here about older popcorn ceilings, the man took a sander to it, then re-plastered the boards, it looked nice, it will sure be a mess though sanding the old stuff off I would imagine. We have the too, I don't like them myself.

We are dealing with this as well. Not even able to paint as it causes more to peel/fall off as well. Before anything, you'll want to be sure it doesn't contain asbestos (have a professional come in and check if you're not sure). But I know we are planning to put unfinished plank boards right over the old ceiling (painted white). Thankfully, ours isn't asbestos, but I've not going to deal with the mess of tearing the stuff down!!

Wow, this is a new one for me. It's flaking because years of hot/cool, damp/dry air has loosened it from the drywall ceiling. How high is the ceiling? If it's over 12 feet, I'd call in a handyman. Either way, get ready for a mess. Popcorn ceilings are supposed to dampen noise and even though they might, they also collect tons of dust and cobwebs and can't be properly cleaned. If you love the look, have it fixed. If it has started to 'peal' more may eventually follow. Think about a flat ceiling to replace it. I would.

Could be it was only thinly spread or very thickly spread and some damp has got behind it, or there is a heavy weight on the floor above that is pressing down on it.