[Luvtails]

try searching these forums as there is alot of good information on the subjects you are asking about. also as soon as he is old enough get him into puppy classes. they help the puppy and you as a new dog owner, as for your questions...

you can try a "kong" toy and put peanut butter in it so he has to spend time licking it out and only give it in the crate.

feeding the pup in the crate also helps him associate it with good and it keeps the kids out of the dogs bowl:)

make sure you pup is out of the crate to get proper exercise both physical and mental. being tired will help him remain calm in crate. also young pups have small bladders and need to be out often.

your puppy needs to be socialized and bond at this early age, are you sure you can do this?
I don't ask this to be critical but you state the puppy is always in the crate. can you gate him where you and the kids are? I have gone as far as putting baby diapers on a puppy to prevent accidents on the rug.