PenciDesign replied
Hi,
1/ If you don't know about the codes - you don't need to use child theme. Child theme uses for developers want to override the files in the parent theme
Use parent theme is good for a beginner like you. And yeah, you can activate parent theme.
2/ Yes, you can. All plugins from the theme is add-on features. You can deactivate all plugins you don't need for use.
Best Regards,
PenciDesign