My DD and her friend are both 6 and in the same class. They have been the best of friends for a few months now, although I know my DD plays with other children at school as well. Just recently I've noticed DD's friend being mean to her - snatching things away from her, etc.
The other day my DD was upset because she told me that her friend had told her in school that I had died (!) which my DD was obviously upset about. I think she was just as upset that her friend would trick her and say something so horrible. I suggested that friends don't do things like that - I think that because they're friends in DD's eyes, this isn't bullying. DD also said that when she is cross or upset about something, her friend stands in front of her smiling in her face. She showed me what she meant and it was in a mocking way, not in a "trying to cheer you up" way. Again, I said that that's not how friends behave.
This girl's mum is expecting a baby in a few month's time and I think this is probably the reason she's behaving this way. My DD and this girl have recently started an after school activity together and, as far as i know, there have been no problems there. DD really looks forward to it when she can see her friend.
It's breaking my heart to see my DD being treated like this and I don't know the best way to handle it. If anyone has experienced a similar situation, I'd be really grateful for any advice.