Small jobs like pathways, stepping stones and small shed floors don't require reenforcing, but it is always a good idea to use rebar and wire mesh inside the concrete in order to make it as strong as possible. Sidewalks don't use rebar because you want to ensure that they can be easily broken up when the time comes to remove or renovate. They typically do not need to handle excessive weight for prolonged periods of time.
Even if your slab isn't required to have reenforcement due to building code, it is still smart to include metal reinforcement like steel rods around the edge of the project. Make sure the foundation will hold the anticipated weight of the final product.
It never hurts to document the fact that you have included rebars and steel in your work by photographing everything as you go along. Job inspectors generally respond favorably to this professional approach to code compliance. This is especially true if the slab has a conduit inserted for electricity because you can visually record when you clamp a large-gauge copper grounding wire to the rebar.
Steel rebar and wire mesh need to be at least two inches from the edge. If moisture gets to the steel, it will rust and cause spalling or cracking. The steel essentially fences in the pour and rebar grips the concrete. It needs to be suspended inside the concrete and is generally placed in the footer.
The best material to support the slab is a couple of inches of crushed gravel. Always lay a good gravel bed subfoundation and make sure it is clean and tamped down hard below the grade. Think of it as a foundation for the foundation. Using a tamping jack will greatly assist in tamping down your subgrade.
Remember... the more steel you use in laying your slab the better it will serve as a durable foundation for your project. Proper tamping and sufficient steel will help produce a quality job you can be proud of for a long time.
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