There's no timetable for development - they are all working on something, but not always the same thing. The early walkers aren't always talking, the early talkers aren't always walking. My son made sounds, but not one single word until 16 months. But he was on his feet at 8 months, and full out running at 9 months.
Sounds like your little guy is trying to make new sounds, maneuvering his mouth and tongue into different positions, and hitting all his benchmarks. There's no cause for alarm. He's just doing things in his own way and his own order.
One thing you can try - down the road - is talking less. Sounds counter-intuitive, but if we do all the talking for our kids and anticipate their needs perfectly, they don't have to talk. Meantime, keep doing anything silly you can think of - blowing bubbles, blowing out candles, making "razz berry" sounds, doing those clicking sounds, and so on. Anything to work the jaw and the tongue. Get some CDs (library or purchased) and sing songs. Do finger plays (good for motor skills and auditory/speaking skills). Just mix it up all the time. Do books, tapes, TV, nature walks/stroller time, and on and on. He'll get it all - just not in the same order as the kid next door.
DO NOT take any criticism from "friends" who are shocked that your kid doesn't do X or Y! This will come up again with potty training, reading, learning math, teething and everything else - I promise you that none of them go to kindergarten in diapers, and none of them finish high school without their teeth. Try to focus on all he does that is terrific, and see those as accomplishments, rather than focusing on what's an "emerging" skill and not there yet!
