This study investigates the development of research skills in the course of higher education training programs for future elementary school teachers. The purpose of this article is to analyze the formation and development of the scientific and pedagogical outlook of higher education students by employing an innovative approach to traditional education. The article identifies the role of modern children’s books in the development of educational competencies by university students in the elementary education field.The authors suggest optimal methods for future teachers’ research competence development by using the material of modern children’s literature. The emphasis on the creative nature of teaching instruction and the application of learning technologies in the education process are outlined. The proposed design foundation for unconventional teaching methods is focused on generating interest in the content of the subject being taught, emphasizing creative approach to the learning exercise completion and ongoing pedagogical evaluation and research. These principles define the educational content and the teaching methods.The author underlines the importance of using the training method in the classroom for the independent assignments to activate the students’ creative potential and curiosity.The study shows how the training session in the works of modern children’s literature could contribute to the language quality and literary education improvements for future elementary school teachers.It is proposed in the article to design a system of training sessions to develop personal and professional competencies and skills required for the future elementary school teachers. The authors hope that the content of the article is of interest to all Ukrainian language students and educators of all levels from elementary to postgraduate education. Keywords: educational process; research skills and competence; language and literary competence; children’s literature, integration; innovation in training; training, hands-on training.