Whatever you do, don't force the pup in there. They have to associate it with being a good place they want to go, not a punishment. I would never use the crate to punish the dog (aka a time-out). I have a pretty well trained dog (gets paper, birds, walk off leash and stops at curb, goes to the kennel when i say "kennel", etc). It all comes from using little treats! Say kennel and throw a treat into the kennel. It will take a while....minutes....hours maybe, but you have to watch it. AS SOON as the puppy goes in you have to give some huge adoration....lots of "good puppy" and more treats. Positive association or whatever you/they want to call it.
My breeder told us to throw a shaker can against the kennel to stop him from whining....i couldn't do it!!
This book is FANTASTIC:
http://www.amazon.com/Good-Owners-Gr.../dp/0446675385