There is a lot of research surround this transition, and solid evidence that is does help novice programmers (not just kids) transition: http://www.jite.org/documents/Vol16/JITEv16ResearchP209-226S...

Our goal is to reduce barriers surrounding syntax and discoverability, so that they reach computational skills (sequences, conditions, functions, lists and other data structures) faster and with higher confidence and motivation. With the motivation (e.g., "I already built this") and a solid foundation, text programming can feel more achievable to the student.