This article discusses the importance of critical literacy and popular culture in early childhood education. It explores the challenges and benefits of including critical literacy in play-based curricula. The article also highlights the need for teachers to model critical literacy activities and to focus on consumer behavior when developing literacy with children. The inclusion of popular culture in critical literacy curricula is supported by scholars and educators. The article concludes by discussing the ongoing ideological struggles in literacy and the importance of recognizing literacy as socially situated cultural, historical, and institutional practices.