I totally understand if the crate is the only option I think you have to be patient with her. She is a baby and maybe her breeder didn't have her in a crate so she is not use to that. I have gone out of town and left Georgie with my in-laws but they are total dog lovers and he snuggles up with my MIL and she adores him. Maybe when you go away your kids will let her sleep with them? I know if I am not available Georgie does not discriminate anyone that has a warm bed he is happy with
One last thing I was concerned about Georgie get hurt sleeping with us because he is so small but he has been with us since August and has been just fine.