Retailers open up the toy chest in October and November to kick-start their money-making season, says Reyne Rice, toy trend specialist of the Toy Industry Association. "This is the time of year for games and puzzles," she says. "Retailers will usually do a buy one, get one free promotion."
If you're buying a gift for someone, the important thing to consider is whether it's appropriate for the recipient, rather than its status as the hottest new item. "It's more important to buy something that they'll love," Rice says.