Hey Nay. Sounds like he's right on track to me. There's HUGE variation in what is considered 'normal' speech development but I had a speech pathologist tell me the other day that she's only concerned if a child is not using 3-5 words by 18 months, and even then, only concerned enough that she recommends follow-up assessment (not making any kind of drastic diagnosis). She said it's far more about intentional communication - pointing, eye contact, sharing a little (non-verbal) joke together etc at this age and that lack of those things is of far greater concern. It sounds like he's doing all the right things.
I think you're right about the current emphasis on his motor skills slowing down his language development. My little munchkin seems to really focus in on one thing at a time. Her language totally exploded over a couple of months, but she talks less ATM as she seems to be really working on her fine motor skills.
Of course, you know him best and should go with your gut and speak to a paed if things don't 'feel right' for any reason. But simply from what you've said, I'd say he's developing BEAUTIFULLY.
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