I always pause my game when I leave and only play it in fast mode when I am present. I monitor my workers very closely at first to be sure they stay on task. Hunting mushrooms is a great help to keep the food pantry within reasonable levels. I didn't go above 12 tribe members until I got fishing this way I was able to stretch my food sources longer.

It is a slower way to play I would imagine but I enjoy playing with my villagers. I search for collectibles and mushrooms while my techs are researching so it doesn't get boring for me.