Getting a Child to Talk

Well first, it's important to realize that children develop at different times and sometimes it just takes longer for one child to reach a milestone than it does for another child.  If this isn't a concern for the parents, and if medical professionals have ruled out possible cognitive impairments, then there's no reason to pressure the child into talking.  Having said that, I understand your desire to help the child communicate.  After all, it's easier for the caregiver and the child if they can express what they want instead of using tears or tantrums.  Assuming there are no cognitive impairments impeding the child's development, I would suggest gently guiding the child's language development.  When he wants something and simply points to it without verbally expressing his desire, reinforce the name of the object.  For example, if it is a cookie and he points to it, ask Would you like a cookie?  Ok, you can have a cookie.  Stress the word cookie.  When you give him the cookie say Here is your cookie.  After a while of reinforcing the words, and after you are sure he knows the word, gently guide him to use his words.  When he points to something, ask him to say the name of the object.  When he points to the cookie, say You want that cookie?  I can give you the cookie if you ask for it.  Can you say 'cookie'?  Say 'cookie.'   Then if the child says anything resembling the word--even if it's only part of the word, such as the 'c' sound or the 'oo' in the middle--praise him!  Children react wonderfully to praise and positive reinforcement.  Clapping and hugs work miracles!