Perhaps it's because it's how I taught myself, but I am in the camp that chords should be taught first (guitar or piano).

Notes, reading sheet music can come much later (if at all).

Two or three chords on either the guitar or piano is an easy start and will open up a world of songs for the learner.

I watched my daughters take lessons and tediously work through reading sheet music, learning scales... I thought it was no wonder they hated it, and no longer play an instrument.