Sounds like you're nailing the crate situation. It has to be something they enjoy and look forward to. When mine come in for the night they sit and wait for their treat, they lay down and I don't hear a peep out of them until I let them out in the morning. The morning greeting is exciting and they roll on the floor for belly rubs, and then go out for the run and play time.
Just keep working at it and making the crate a place to enjoy and not dread. Having it out where activity occurs is also good. They can go in their crates on their own and not feel isolated. Mine do this several times a day.
The two crates are in the adjacent sun room and they can see us if we are in there watching TV,etc. I gave away a daybed to make room for the two crates that take up an entire corner but it was worth it.

Good luck and keep on working on it. It'll all turn out great. Just wait and see
Labmomma