C language as first

I still believe C is the best first programing language to learn first, although its intimidating at first. It all boils down to the medium for which you want to learn from. I recommend "Absolute beginners guide to C". It gives you a stronge undestanding of basic functions and operators which solidify the backbone of Programming; plus it makes all other languages look simplified and easy to learn. Just pick up the medium, Grind it out.