High school parties — from casual get-togethers to graduation open-house affairs — are kicking into high gear, and the celebration season likely will be around through midsummer.

The temptation and opportunity for under-age drinking and drug use increases tremendously during this time, say area community leaders, parents and students themselves.

“High school graduation is a rite of passage, a transition, a step forward from childhood to young adulthood,” says Dr. Paul Smith, owner and president of Rochester Hills-based Abaris Behavioral Health “The graduation season is a time for celebration, when many teenagers have high spirits, are full of excitement, but also have low inhibitions and are more likely to engage in risky or life-threatening behavior involving alcohol and or drugs.”

Add to the inclination to celebrate that parents often don’t know or turn a blind eye to what goes on at parties and among teens, and the results can be – and have been – tragic.

“I very much worry about young adults at this time of year because that celebratory mood, that feeling of freedom can lead to some very bad decisions,” said Bloomfield Township Police Chief Kirt Bowden.

Experts suggest parents face the realities, take steps to prevent such behaviors, and deal swiftly and clearly with situations that put their teens or others in danger.

Over the next three days, Patch will explore some of the tactics parents and teens can take to minimize risks during this time of graduations, celebrations and parties.

Today: What studies show, what parents don’t know and 10 tips to help them

Friday: Communication is the key and community resources

Saturday: Teens say it’s all about choices