Aerobatic planes like the "Full House" and scale planes like J-3 Cubs are NOT "good" first airplanes. The Super Impress is just okay, mostly because it's a bit heavy and has a very inefficient motor system.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with foam airplanes in general, but as with ANY type of building material, there are many well-designed airplanes, and there is a lot of absolute JUNK. An example of an EXCELLENT foamie aircraft is the GWS Slow Stick. You can't go wrong with one of these, and you won't even need a buddy box.

If you crash and break the airplane, it can almost always be repaired. Don't forget that. A tube of 5 minute epoxy and a roll of packing tape, both from Wal-Mart, are all you need.