The developing of children’s multiple intelligences and key competences in the context of non-formal education. A case study of the competition “Słoneczniki [Sunflowers]”

Educational activities organized by cultural institutions are nowadays developed around the world in spaces other than schools. In particular, some new forms of education for children emerged, which are situated in museums, theatres, and cultural and entertainment centres. Global educational challenges are undertaken in local cultural environments. Their shared value is the focus on developing children’s abilities and the potential for multiple intelligences from an early age. The multiplicity and diversity of cultural offers is undoubtedly an advantage, but also a problem. Hence, the question arises which of these cultural proposals are particularly valuable, compared to others, and stand out in terms of quality. The article presents a case study of the “Sunflowers” competition, held in Krakow, in the context of research into children’s cultural and intercultural education. The materials made available by the organizer of the competition were analyzed in the article. Non-formal education has been discussed as an important area of educational influence and the formation of cultural competence.