JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The 18th Annual Home School Curriculum Convention is being held Friday and Saturday at the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center.

Organizers said they're seeing an increase in the numbers of families who decide to home school, but they said this weekend's event is open to anyone who just interested in educating children.

"It's for anyone concerned about education at any level," Princess Evans, Convention Organizer, said.

Parents and their children will find many home schooling resources including video classes and on-line classes.

The exhibit hall will be open both days and seminars will be available hourly to assist newcomers and veterans in their homeschooling endeavors.

Darlene Gray chose home schooling to have more time with her children. She said the convention is providing her with many resources.

"This is wonderful when I started years ago I bought everything from one vendor, but now I pick and choose," Gray said.

For the past 12 years Gray has home schooled all three of her children. She said she has heard the arguments that this deprives her children of important social skills that can only be learned in a classroom environment. Her 14 year old says there are other benefits.

"I love it. I love being with my family and my mom," Melissa Gray said.

At least 6,000 Duval County students are home schooled.