Install Python on Raspberry Pi 3 B+

[loren41]

Noob wanting to learn Python programming. My interest is focused on text-based document retrieval and data mining. I am 78 years old and have a Masters degree in Computer Science (translates to outdated knowledge and slower brain cells) and currently computing on a desktop Linux PC using KDE Plasma5. I have recently received a Raspberry Pi as a gift and would like to share a programming project with my grandson.

I have several key questions regarding how to begin:
1. Is any Linux OS for the Raspberry Pi better suited for Python? Default is Raspberian.
2. Which version of Python should we use?
3. Which IDE do you suggest?

Any other suggestions to help us on our way?