What do you do if someone gives your toddler gum?

I would explain to them that those are forbidden food and choking hazards. If my kid wants a snack she can have an approved treat I have bought or made for her. If it happens a second time, I would not allow that person to babysit or be with my child unsupervised again because he or she obviously doesn't respect me enough as a parent to listen to me.

In my mind I think a babysitter or care giver should already know better. If they don't. They aren't old and educated enough to be watching my kid. And that's then end of it for them... I'd rather have to fire someone on a first offense than come home to find my kid choked to death..

Relatives on the other hand. Raised in a different time. Think it's fine to just 'trial and error' with kids. Even though it's proven that some foods just aren't a good idea for that age. I'd go with the it's 'my kid my rules' sort of thing. Respect that I decide what my kid eats. If you don't. Then he won't stay with you and you won't be allowed to give him/her any treats.